Transparency

It was shocking to hear.

I was both angry and saddened.

I overheard one of our HR Generalists advocating for the firing of an individual because of their political beliefs.

In another instance, she referred to herself as a "counselor" and "psychologist" to an employee over the phone.

I quickly advised her to stop in both instances.

Firing someone for their political beliefs is illegal.

Referring to yourself as a counselor or psychologist when you don't have a clinical license is illegal (at least in my state).

She just laughed and said, "What happens in HR stays in HR."

Lack of transparency when you are in the department overseeing human resources is problematic.

That's why I'm an advocate of HR audits.

That's why HR leaders need to not only have high ethical standards but need to be aware of what is happening on a day-to-day basis with their people.

The generalist was a good person. She just needed some guidance.

How involved are you with the people you lead?

Do you know their work habits?

Do you know their work styles?

Do you interact with them on a daily basis?

What are your best practices as a leader?