Empowering entrepreneurs: Why aligning HR strategies with core values is essential, plus 5 tips for success
Johannesburg, September 2023 – Entrepreneurship is a journey laden with challenges and triumphs. To navigate this path successfully, it’s crucial for entrepreneurs to harness the power of Human Resources (HR) and align their strategies with their core values. CRM Enterprise offers invaluable advice for entrepreneurs seeking to do the same.
Starting a new venture often means doing everything yourself, including HR. As your business expands, the workload can become overwhelming, affecting customer service and efficiency. CRM Enterprise Founder Connie Matlejoane experienced this firsthand and learned the importance of aligning HR strategies with core values.
Connie believes, “Aligning HR with your values is the key to long-lasting success. It empowers both your business and your team.”
At the heart of CRM Enterprise’s journey lies its three pillars: speed, price, and care. “Care” reflects the company’s commitment to its community, evident by its strategic location in the Klipfontein View township. CRM Enterprise actively supports the local economy and empowers young talent, staying true to its values.
A standout aspect of CRM Enterprise’s HR strategy is the emphasis on hiring for potential, not just existing skills. Although this approach demands time and effort for training, it aligns perfectly with the empowerment agenda. Although the early years saw staff turnover, valuable lessons led to improved hiring practices, resulting in a dedicated and continually improving team.
For entrepreneurs looking to replicate CRM Enterprise’s success, here are five pivotal tips from Connie:
1. Establish HR Processes from Inception: Don’t wait—set up essential HR processes from day one. This includes creating templates for payroll, staff handbooks, social media policies, employment contracts, leave forms, and induction materials. Preparedness conveys organisational excellence and expedites the hiring process.
2. Define Roles with Precision: Avoid overloading employees with multiple tasks. Instead, clearly define key performance areas for each team member. This clarity fosters precise expectations and simplifies performance evaluations.
3. Prioritise Comprehensive Induction: Invest in one-day induction sessions for new team members. Cover core values, brand promises, key clients, major suppliers, policies, procedures, and long-term strategies. This approach eases new hires into the team and nurtures a sense of belonging.
4. Competitive and Timely Remuneration: Conduct market research to determine competitive salaries for each position. Ensuring fair compensation and prompt payments reduces staff anxiety and boosts morale.
5. Information is Power: Regularly share important information with your team. CRM Enterprise conducts weekly meetings where every team member provides updates on their area of responsibility. This ensures that no crucial tasks are overlooked, as colleagues can remind each other of pending items.
These guiding principles serve as a beacon to navigate the dynamic landscape of business. By aligning HR strategies with core values and following these five pivotal tips from Connie, you can chart a course towards empowerment, growth, and excellence in your entrepreneurial journey.
