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In the spirit of the Olympics, let's have a look at how HR can foster a culture of resilience, adaptability, and more within the workforce.
With the 2024 Olympic season upon us, it is the perfect time to reflect on the values embodied by the athletes we admire on-screen. After all, athletes have so much to teach us beyond their incredible physical feats. We have so much to learn from them — Whether it's pushing through tough times, working well with a team, or striving to reach their personal best, athletes show us what it means to stay focused and committed.
Aligning these values with HR practices can create a more effective and cohesive workplace. In that vein, Sarah Gideon takes us through a list of key values exhibited by athletes that both HR teams and people managers can adopt and learn from:
Perseverance and determination
Athletes often face numerous setbacks and challenges, but their unwavering commitment to their goals keeps them pushing forward. They demonstrate that persistence, even in the face of adversity, is crucial to success.
How HR teams can value-add:
HR can demonstrate perseverance by consistently striving to improve workplace culture, even when faced with resistance. They can continuously work towards achieving organisational goals and improving employee satisfaction — the equivalent to a gold win.
Discipline and hard work
The rigorous training schedules and strict diets athletes adhere to highlight the importance of discipline. Their dedication to continuous improvement through hard work is a testament to what can be achieved with focused effort.
How HR teams can value-add:
HR can set an example by adhering to company policies and procedures. They can show dedication to their role through meticulous planning, execution of HR initiatives, and ensuring compliance with labour laws.
Teamwork and collaboration
Many Olympic sports require athletes to work in teams, emphasising the significance of collaboration and mutual support. Successful athletes understand that achieving common goals often requires working together effectively.
How HR teams can value-add:
HR can foster a collaborative environment by encouraging teamwork, facilitating team-building activities, and promoting open communication inter-departmentally. They can also collaborate with other departments to address and resolve HR-related issues.
Resilience
Athletes often experience failures and injuries, yet they bounce back with greater strength and determination. Their resilience teaches us the importance of recovering from setbacks and continuing to strive towards our objectives.
How HR teams can value-add:
HR often deals with difficult situations such as employee conflicts, layoffs, or policy changes. Demonstrating resilience helps them manage these challenges effectively and maintain a positive attitude, which can influence the overall morale of the organisation.
Sportsmanship and fair play
The spirit of fair competition and respect for opponents is a fundamental aspect of the Olympics. Among the many things we can learn from athletes, is the value of integrity, respect, and maintaining a positive attitude, regardless of the outcome.
How HR teams can value-add:
HR can ensure fairness and equity in all HR practices, from recruitment to promotions. They can uphold ethical standards and promote a culture of respect and integrity within the workplace.
Goal setting
Athletes are masters at setting and achieving goals. Their journey underscores the importance of having clear, measurable objectives and the dedication required to reach them.
How HR teams can value-add:
One way to start is to set clear, achievable goals for themselves and their teams. Hr can also work with line managers and employees to set and achieve their own professional development goals through performance reviews and development plans.
Adaptability and flexibility
In sports, conditions and situations can change rapidly. Athletes teach us the importance of being adaptable and ready to modify strategies and approaches as needed.
How HR teams can value-add:
The HR landscape is constantly evolving with new technologies, laws, and workforce trends. HR professionals need to be adaptable, ready to implement new systems, update policies, and respond to the changing needs of the organisation.
Mental toughness
The psychological challenges of competition are immense. Athletes demonstrate the importance of mental strength, focus, and the ability to stay calm and composed under pressure.
How HR teams can value-add:
Sensitive and stressful situations are not uncommon for HR to navigate. Thus, demonstrating mental toughness allows them to handle conflicts, make tough decisions, and support employees through challenging times without losing focus or composure.
Healthy lifestyle
Athletes prioritise their physical health, showcasing the benefits of a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient rest. This holistic approach to wellbeing is a valuable lesson for everyone.
How HR teams can value-add:
Take that step forward to implement wellness programmes that encourage a healthy lifestyle among employees. It also helps that HR leads by example, balancing their work and personal life to maintain their wellbeing, which in turn can improve their effectiveness and resilience.
Passion and love for the profession
The sheer joy and passion athletes have for their sport remind us that loving what we do can drive us to excel and find fulfilment in our pursuits.
How HR teams can value-add:
A passion for our work can inspire others and drive positive changes within the organisation. In fact, the right level of enthusiasm can enhance employee engagement and contribute to a more dynamic and motivated workplace.
By observing and aligning these values with the overall talent management and business approach, HR professionals, like yourself, can create a more robust, fair, and dynamic work environment, and ultimately contribute to the success and growth of your organisation.
READ MORE: 5 benefits of cultivating warm employee bonds for boosting engagement within the workplace
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