A virtually nonexistent function just a few “business decades” ago, the function of human resources in business has been evolving far more rapidly in recent years. HR’s role has gone from purely administrative (hiring, firing, training, raises) to one in which they are valued as a strategic partner and integral part of the company’s leadership group. But that doesn’t mean they are without obstacles. In fact, as HR grows, their challenges grow with them. Here are the three main challenges faced by the modern human resource department:1. Change Management (no, not an oxymoron, but a mandatory)- The times, they are a-changin.’ Technology is advancing in leaps and bounds. The Internet has made the world a lot smaller. Clients are demanding more from the companies they do business with. The economy fluctuates wildly. All these things create the biggest human resource management challenge- dealing with change. Whether it’s staffing, payroll or benefits, HR professionals have to learn to be even more flexible than before, and will to change their strategy according to the changes that come their way.2. Leadership Development- (don’t gloss over that generic-sounding term, this is important) HR has the major responsibility of not only hiring qualified employees that will do a job well but training them so they have to knowledge and tools to do so. This is especially important when it comes to training for leadership roles. After hiring and training, human resources professionals (including outsourcing functions) have to make sure they are retaining their best employees, that these employees rise through the ranks based on the merits of their performance, and that they are given the tools to succeed as an eventual leader.3. Effectiveness Measurement- “If you can’t measure it, don’t do it!” In order to really see the impact of your human resource strategies, you’ll need accurate measurement tools. You can create as many plans and strategies as you want, but without a measurement of their effectiveness, you’ll never know what is working, what isn’t, and what to do next. Not good.Yes, we’re in the business of human resources outsourcing. And yes, that includes payroll, staffing, benefits, workers compensation, and a whole slew of HR services. But that’s just a menu. At Syndeo, we’re always looking for “a great idea.” In fact, it’s sort become our mantra. So let’s talk.