Human resource management (HRM) is one of the most inspiring courses on dealing with people within the workplace. Through the course, I understood contemporary organizational practices and changes, which will aid in my preparation for a future career. One of my takeaways is that managers must uphold ethics when leading their subjects. Secondly, I learned about the strategic alignment of strategic HRM to the practice of innovation, quality enhancement, and cost reduction. Moreover, after going through the lectures, my perspective on career and future employment is now focused on flexibility. Although the topic was broad, my three takeaways concern ethical practice, strategic HRM alignment, and career flexibility.
My first takeaway is that it is unethical to view employees as resources only and forget they are humans. I learned that many organizational managers create a crisis by categorizing their workers as mere means of production and fulfilling the company’s vision. Such a perspective leads to burnout and stress when individuals have issues at home, such as grief, sick relatives, or domestic violence, but are ignored in the workplace.
The information will help in my career as it inspires me as a leader to uphold the dignity of people and show them genuine concern. The lesson on strategic HRM alignment increased my understanding of the relevance of setting a target for every effort exerted by the management. I will emulate the same strategy in my job by ensuring I use my resources for specific academic and career development goals. My other takeaway is that there is a general shift in employee behavior, with many people having flexible hours, working from home, and doing multiple jobs. The lesson helps me to prepare for the global market by diversifying my skills.
In conclusion, the takeaways will enhance my career development as they influence my values, attitude towards work, and career choice. Particularly, ethical HRM provides insight into recognizing the humanity and dignity of my colleagues and subjects. The impact of strategic HRM is that it inspires me to tie my academics to specific career goals. Lastly, the changes in the work environment and flexibility of jobs inspire me to gain multiple skills and knowledge to increase work opportunities.