Don't forget the HUMAN in Human Resources

Since this is my first post, I'll write why I became interested in 'Human Resources' as a profession.

As a young person, in college, my subjects of choice were Economics and Psychology. The former because, hey, Economists ruled the roost and the latter, as I was always fascinated about how peoples minds work, what they're thinking and why they are who they are.

My first job interview was at a Financial institution, and I remember it as if it was yesterday. I was escorted to a conference room and asked to wait for the 'HR Manager' who would be taking my interview. I was quite excited at the prospect of being part of such an organization and, waited with optimism and eagerness.

The HR Manager arrived after a few minutes, sat down on the opposite side of the table, didn't say hello, constantly looking at the papers he was holding. He was by far the grumpiest person I had ever seen. 

After another few minutes had passed, he looked up, grumbled a hello and started with his round of questions. I won't get into them, but they went on for over half an hour with me trying to answer as best I could.

That was that! He got up and left the room, without even a 'goodbye' or 'have a good day', normal pleasantries which, I would image, should come effortlessly.

By the way, I got the job! It's been over 25 years, but I still remember it like it was yesterday. I went through similar experiences for two other jobs, and that's when I had an epiphany, and knew what I wanted to do in my career.

I started my HR career in 2004 when the company I had joined as a Client Service Manager, with only 12 employees, needed an HR department and I volunteered for the position. My boss had faith in me and for that I am very grateful. Together, we took the company from 12 employees to 120 in one year. I truly thrived as policy maker, recruiter, manager, team mate. And the ONE thing that is dear to me till this day and that I always say is: "don't forget about the HUMAN in Human Resources"!