When you first walk into a company with HR issues, what's your process for diagnosing the root causes rather than just the surface symptoms?

When I start working with a new client, I find it important to build trust and ensure confidentiality, to be able to get the best results it's important that employees feel they can speak openly with me.  Next, I gather information through Interviews, survey, review all polices and observe activities in the workplace. Once I have this information it then possible to identify patterns and the root cause of the issues. Finally, I summarize the core issues and create an action plan for my client, ensuring we review this together and gain buy-in from both leadership an employee’s.

Key Steps to Diagnose HR Issues

• Understand the Business: Review company goals and how HR supports them.
• Engage Stakeholders: Conduct interviews and surveys with leaders and employees.
• Audit HR Practices: Evaluate policies, processes, and compliance standards.
• Analyze Metrics: Examine turnover, engagement, absenteeism, and exit data for patterns.
• Observe Dynamics: Assess team interactions, communication, and leadership practices.
• Identify Root Causes: Use tools like the 5 Whys to uncover deeper issues.
• Plan Solutions: Prioritize and address root causes with actionable strategies.