February: HR consultants can save employers time, money

Small and mid-size employers often don’t have the time to handle day-to-day Human Resources tasks, but they may not have the finances to have a Human Resources manager on staff.

A Human Resources consultant has the experience and expertise to step in and handle HR functions when needed without the cost of a full-time HR manager.

As of December 2019, the salary for a Human Resources manager in Massachusetts ranged from $70,000 to $200,000, in addition to benefits, according to O*Net.com and the rate for a Human Resources consultants can range from $100.00 to $200.00 per hour for hours worked with no benefits.

Peace of mind

HR consultants can give employers peace of mind, a resource they don’t have without Human Resources staff and save them money. The consultants offer employers advice and solutions they’ve learned through experience and best practices.

They can provide flexible, customized services; help with the paperwork for on-boarding; increase productivity and profitability, and reduce risk; help employers find top-notch talent to grow the team and increase the number of customers who can be served; and reduce the time it takes to screen candidates and find a good fit with the company.

Consultants also have the expertise to improve performance reviews, and process tracking, goal setting and benefits management.

Trusted adviser

A consultant can be an employer’s trusted adviser with the time and experience to navigate difficult circumstances. A client who had to lay off an employee, for example, reached out to me for advice on how to compensate the employee and how to handle the situation. I prepared a checklist for the employer on the types of compensation the employee was entitled to and how to respond to questions the employee might ask.

Expertise varies

Not all consultants are knowledgeable in all areas. Employers interested in hiring a consultant should ask about the consultant’s core competencies to find the right candidate, and request references and testimonials.

Upcoming events

The 50+ Job Seekers Networking Group will meet in three locations: Worcester Senior Center, Auburn Public Library and the Northampton Senior Center.

If you’re an employer looking to hire a mature worker or if you’re a mature worker interested in the networking group, email me at melodybeachconsulting@gmail.com.

If you have questions about Human Resources, contact me at melody@melodybeachconsulting.com.