solutions to the table. You need to be flexible
and agile and think strategically, yet be
hands on and work tactically. Far too often,
I see junior HR people get into the
business world and they don’t necessarily
understand the business dynamics and
can’t articulate an HR strategy into dollars
and cents. I think that is absolutely critical.
What tips do you have for new grads or
those in entry-level HR jobs who want to
move up the ladder?
BF: I would say, “speak business.” Gain a
breadth of experience and do not be afraid
to step back to step forward. If your ultimate
goal is to specialize in one area, my
recommendation is to get out of it so that
when you do focus, you’ll bring your client
a wealth of solutions. Co-op is wonderful
to get those different work experiences.
Find a mentor; grow a network – all of
these are important elements.
The HR field has been evolving. What
changes excite you the most?
BF: When I first joined HR, we still
weren’t totally recognized as a professional
entity. Now, I’m most excited about the
fact that we’re being recognized as a critical
function to the business and we have
established a set of standards that makes
the profession better as a whole. We are
seen as a business leader; I’m glad to see
the HR function heading in that direction.
What’s the future of HR?
BF: I think HR is going to continue to
evolve. Looking way back, it was an administrative
function. Today, for the most
part, it’s a business leader function. It’s up
to us to keep driving it forward and earn
the respect of the business it supports. I
think HR will always have administrative
components, but where HR is playing
more of a role is in change management,
organizational design, culture and business
transformation. We need to continue
to educate the world about the value HR
brings to the business. n
IN A NUTSHELL
First job: At 16, I worked in an independent lumberyard loading
up trucks with insulation and lumber.
Childhood ambition: I wanted to be involved in the space
program.
Best boss and why: I’ve had a couple of bosses who allowed
me to grow and learn. It’s good to let your employees slip, fall
and scrape their knee because it helps them grow. You just
try to prevent them doing a face-plant! A boss who gives you
flexibility and latitude but provides coaching along the way is
awesome.
Current source of inspiration: My inspiration comes from seeing
someone I’ve helped with advice, direction or support
succeed – professionally or personally.
Best piece of advice ever received: There are always going
to be things getting in the way and slowing you down in the
pursuit of your goals. Deal with it – find solutions around it.
Secondly, don’t sweat the small stuff. Don’t get bogged down
in the weeds; find a way to think strategically.
Favourite music: Blue Rodeo, Zac Brown Band, Pink Floyd or
Supertramp – anything from rock to country.
Last book read: Switch: How to Change Things When Change
is Hard, by Chip Heath and Dan Heath. I was looking at trying
to transform a few things I was working on and someone recommended
the book. It was pretty good.
IN A DIFFICULT TIME, A SIMPLE
EMAIL WON’T CUT IT. YOU NEED
TO GET IN FRONT OF PEOPLE.
hr influencer
36 ❚ MARCH 2017 ❚ HR PROFESSIONAL