Unlocking HUMAN RESOURCES
Desma & Elrona: Managing Partners - S&K HR Consulting
In the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Desma and Elrona, the dynamic duo behind SNKR Consulting. With their extensive experience in human resources (HR) and entrepreneurship, they shared invaluable insights into the world of HR, particularly within the context of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UAE. This blog post aims to encapsulate their thoughts, experiences, and the lessons they imparted during our engaging conversation.
The Journey into HR
Desma and Elrona's journey into HR is both inspiring and relatable. Elrona, who founded S&K HR Consulting in 2013, has always been passionate about HR. She recalls a pivotal moment during her school years when a guest speaker introduced her to the field. This encounter sparked her interest in understanding people and their dynamics within organizations. Her natural inclination toward social interactions and strong values around fairness and ethics guided her toward a career in HR.
On the other hand, Desma's path was less straightforward. Initially unsure of her career direction, she pursued psychology at university, eventually leading her to HR. A course on organizational behavior captivated her, revealing her aptitude for analyzing situations and developing solutions. This realization began her journey into HR, where she would later thrive.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit
Both Desma and Elrona attribute their entrepreneurial spirit to their family backgrounds. Growing up in a large family with strong female role models and an entrepreneurial father, they were surrounded by examples of leadership and initiative. This environment instilled in them the belief that taking charge and making decisions was possible and necessary.
Their transition from employees to entrepreneurs was not without challenges. Desma candidly shared her initial reluctance to embrace entrepreneurship despite possessing the characteristics of a natural leader. After spending 15 years in the corporate world, she found herself unfulfilled and yearning for a change. Taking a year-long sabbatical allowed her to reflect on her career and ultimately led her to join Elrona in building SNKR Consulting.
Understanding the HR Landscape
One of the key themes discussed in the episode was the evolving perception of HR, particularly among SMEs in the UAE. Desma and Elrona emphasized that many business owners view HR merely as an administrative function primarily focused on recruitment and termination. However, they believe that HR should be seen as a strategic partner that can drive organizational success.
Desma highlighted the importance of recognizing that employees are a company's greatest asset. When business owners understand that their people are fundamental to their success, they are more likely to invest in creating a positive work environment. This shift in mindset is crucial for fostering a culture where employees feel valued and engaged.
The Role of HR in SMEs
Desma and Elrona shared their insights on the specific needs of SMEs regarding HR practices. They noted that many entrepreneurs are subject matter experts in their respective fields but often lack the knowledge and skills to manage their workforce effectively. This gap can lead to decision fatigue, where business owners feel overwhelmed by the myriad of choices they must make regarding their employees.
To address this challenge, SNKR Consulting focuses on helping SMEs establish a solid HR foundation. They work with businesses looking to expand into the UAE and those without formal HR practices in place. Collaborating closely with business owners, they help shape organizational culture and create systematic frameworks that promote employee satisfaction and productivity.
The Importance of Saying No
A significant takeaway from the episode was the importance of setting boundaries and knowing when to say no. Desma and Elrona shared their experiences of initially feeling the pressure to accept every client that came their way. However, they quickly learned that not every client aligns with their values and vision for HR.
By being selective about their clients, they ensure they can provide the best possible service to those who truly value HR as a strategic function. This approach protects their team's well-being and allows them to focus on clients who share their commitment to creating positive work environments.
Building a Sustainable HR Practice
Sustainability emerged as another critical topic during our conversation. Desma and Elrona emphasized that sustainability in HR goes beyond environmental considerations; it encompasses creating a sustainable workplace culture. They discussed how businesses often fall into the trap of quick hiring and firing, leading to high turnover rates and a lack of stability.
Instead, they advocate for a more thoughtful approach to recruitment. Taking the time to find the right fit for a role benefits the organization and fosters a sense of belonging among employees. When individuals feel valued and supported, they are more likely to contribute positively to the organization's success.
The Web of Communication
Desma and Elrona likened the role of HR to building a web of communication within an organization. They emphasized that effective communication is essential for creating a cohesive work environment. Employees who feel connected and informed are more likely to collaborate and work towards common goals.
HR is pivotal in facilitating this communication by establishing clear channels and processes. By doing so, they help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts that can arise in the absence of structured communication. This proactive approach enhances employee satisfaction and contributes to overall organizational success.
The Entrepreneurial Mindset
Throughout the episode, Desma and Elrona highlighted the importance of adopting an entrepreneurial mindset within HR. They believe that HR professionals should focus on administrative tasks and embrace innovation and creativity. By thinking outside the box, HR can contribute to the growth and development of the organization.
Desma shared her experience of transitioning from a corporate environment to entrepreneurship. She noted that the skills she developed in the corporate world, such as decision-making and problem-solving, were invaluable in her role as an entrepreneur. This perspective reinforces that HR professionals can leverage their experiences to drive positive organizational change.
The Impact of HR on Organizational Culture
Desma and Elrona's passion for shaping organizational culture was evident throughout our conversation. They believe that HR can influence the overall work environment and employee experience. By implementing effective HR practices, organizations can create a culture that prioritizes employee well-being and fosters collaboration.
One of the key aspects of building a positive organizational culture is aligning HR practices with the company's values. Desma and Elrona emphasized that employees who see their organization's values reflected in HR policies and practices are more likely to feel a sense of belonging and commitment to the organization.
The insights shared by Desma and Elrona during this episode serve as a valuable reminder of the critical role HR plays in the success of organizations, particularly SMEs. Their experiences and perspectives challenge the traditional view of HR as merely an administrative function and highlight its potential as a strategic partner in driving organizational growth.
As we navigate the complexities of the modern workplace, it is essential for business owners and HR professionals alike to embrace a holistic approach to HR. By prioritizing employee well-being, fostering effective communication, and aligning HR practices with organizational values, we can create workplaces that thrive and contribute positively to the broader community.
In closing, we encourage our readers to reflect on their own HR practices and consider how they can implement the lessons learned from Desma and Elrona. Whether you are an entrepreneur, an HR professional, or simply someone interested in the world of work, there is much to gain from embracing a more strategic and people-centric approach to HR. Together, we can unlock the full potential of our organizations and create a brighter future for all.