How Supporting Start-Ups and Small Businesses Ignites My Passion for HR

A Personal Account of Finding Meaningful Work and Making a Lasting Impact through HR Support

"Why are you solely focused on start-ups?" - It's a question I'm frequently asked.

As a seasoned human resources professional, I've had the opportunity to work with companies of all sizes. But when I took a step back to reflect on my career and what truly ignited my passion, I found myself drawn to a particular area - providing HR support to start-ups and small businesses. In fact, I could talk about it for hours!

At the outset of my career, I had the opportunity to join a start-up that was on the cusp of rapid global expansion. In that role, I learned how crucial it is to address HR and people operations early in a company's growth. I realized that by proactively establishing strong HR foundations, many of the challenges that the company faced later on could have been avoided. This experience left a permanent impression on me, underscoring HR's vital role in helping start-ups and small businesses navigate their growth challenges.

After a decade of growth, I joined a start-up very early in its development. Being part of building the foundation and establishing HR processes and practices from the ground up was incredibly satisfying. I enjoyed the challenge of creating systems and policies that were effective, aligned with the company's culture and values, and ready to scale. Through this experience, I saw firsthand how essential HR support is to the success of a start-up or small business.

While providing HR support to start-ups and small businesses shares some similarities with supporting larger corporations, it demands a distinct approach that considers the organization's unique needs and resources.

When asked why I focus on start-ups and small businesses, here's why:

Start-ups and Small Businesses face unique HR challenges.

Start-ups and small businesses often operate with limited resources, including financial and human resources. This means that HR support must be tailored to the specific needs of the organization, lean, and cost-effective.

I can make a more significant impact.

By working with start-ups, I can have a more comprehensive impact on an entire organization. I get to work closely with founders and leaders to shape their HR strategy and ensure that it aligns with their overall business goals.

I’m agile, and HR needs to be too.

Start-ups and small businesses can experience rapid growth in a short amount of time, and HR support must be agile and adaptable to changing needs and be able to scale up quickly when necessary.

Dynamic and fast-paced environments are my jam.

Working with start-ups means that no two days are the same. These companies are constantly evolving, and I enjoy being a part of that growth process. The fast-paced nature of start-ups creates a rollercoaster ride of emotions, that's what makes it an exciting and invigorating vibe!

I build meaningful relationships.

Working with start-ups, I get to build meaningful relationships with founders, leaders, and team members. Yes, team members as well! By developing these relationships, I gain a deeper understanding of their needs and provide more personalized support.

Programs and systems are built around the company's culture.

Start-ups and small businesses have the opportunity to shape their company culture from the outset. I enjoy working with founders and business owners, defining the company's values and mission, developing employee engagement programs, and fostering a positive work environment.

Specializing in supporting start-ups and small businesses aligns with my values and allows me to make a meaningful impact. 

By partnering with an experienced HR professional, start-ups and small businesses can build a strong HR foundation that supports their growth and success.

If you are a start-up or small business needing HR support, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. I look forward to helping you achieve your goals!

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