Test Noa – JM
Audio available
Brain Circuits
The CHRO agenda: 3 questions to ask yourself to plan for the unexpected
An increasingly complex business environment demands CHROs to be outward-looking, future-focused, and highly collaborative. Check your readiness using this three-point questionnaire and refer to the tips for guidance if in doubt.
1. Are you monitoring events in geopolitics?
The issues affecting CHROs are changing profoundly. The most immediate issue is geopolitics.
Tips
- Run scenario-planning exercises with your teams as a matter of routine.
- Ensure the firm’s readiness isn’t diminished when new people take on leadership roles.
- Check that plans remain relevant as external circumstances change.
2. Is your internal communications planning comprehensive?
Communications for a multinational business require careful calibration. Ask yourself “What communications should we send, when, and to whom?” A strategic approach to communications will also help you navigate external pressure to take a public stance on political hot topics.
Tips
- You don’t need to comment on everything.
- Be measured in terms of what you communicate.
- Focus on urgent practical questions, such as “What should we be thinking about here? How do we provide support to people, and for how long?”
3. Are you disseminating learning around the firm?
The CHRO should function as a disseminator of learning around the firm, working closely with executives across the organization to address the root causes of complex challenges. There isn’t a playbook for every situation, but managers should have a template to refer to for guidance. This will enable them to make decisions without deferring to HR by default.
Tips
- Accept and assimilate different viewpoints on geopolitical events.
- Anticipate divergent opinions on your role and the performance of the HR function within the business.
- Take a proactive approach by inviting opinion in a structured way, e.g., by using Pulse surveys and other feedback mechanisms to monitor opinion. This will give insight into how to manage differences and respond constructively.
Key takeaway
Collaboration is key, as the challenges CHROs have to solve today are extremely complex. That means you need to spend much more time thinking about tomorrow, draw in the resources around you, and use opinions across the business to inform strategy to have the greatest impact in the years ahead.
Authors
Related
(Test-Buhle) How to get sustainable business transformation right
Sustainable business transformation is a difficult act to pull off. Julia Binder identifies the roadblocks and the drivers of change to enhance your chances of success. ...
There are 4 types of responsible leader. Which one are you?
Every leadership approach has its pros and cons. Recognizing your style and knowing how to blend different approaches – and avoid the traps – will improve your ability to respond to challenges...
So, you think you’re ready for retirement?
Most senior leaders struggle with the decision to step down, often holding on long after their optimal departure date. Take this quiz to find out if you’re really ready – and read...
Learn Brain Circuits
Join us for daily exercises focusing on issues from team building to developing an actionable sustainability plan to personal development. Go on - they only take five minutes.
Explore Leadership
What makes a great leader? Do you need charisma? How do you inspire your team? Our experts offer actionable insights through first-person narratives, behind-the-scenes interviews and The Help Desk.
Join Membership
Log in here to join in the conversation with the I by IMD community. Your subscription grants you access to the quarterly magazine plus daily articles, videos, podcasts and learning exercises.