When you work in HR outsourcing, one of the hardest questions to answer is: what does an HR consultant actually do? It would be easier to answer the question, “What does an HR consultant not do?”

At Helios, we are often asked to define (and provide) strategic HRM to an organization in need of change. Strategic Human Resource Management is a big "buzz" term that has been used in senior leadership circles for quite some time. It is widely known to be the future of HR, is talked about at every HR conference, and is what most executives tell us they want when we work with them. But what is it? How can you determine if your HR department is working strategically? What is Strategic HRM?

Traditionally, HR departments work in a largely administrative environment, completing transactions such as hiring and onboarding employees, processing promotions, and managing performance review processes. All of this work needs to occur and is usually guided by a larger HR strategy. In Strategic HRM, that strategy looks beyond the immediate needs of the human resources team and instead focuses on larger business goals and business strategy.

In Brief: Choosing the right HRIS system can transform HR efficiency and data accuracy. This guide helps mid-sized employers compare options, assess vendor fit, and build an implementation roadmap aligned with your organization’s goals.

The average tenure for American workers has been on a steady decline for many years. In 2014, the median employee aged over 25 had been in their role for 5.5 years. By 2024, that was down to 4.8 years. As a result, not all employees are thinking about long-service awards.

Artificial Intelligence has been around for a few years now. So far, it has created more questions than answers. Leaders are still wondering if AI can deliver serious productivity gains or alter their staffing needs.