Human Resources Management Key Terms

Learn about key concepts in human resources management

Human resources management, or HR management, is a vital asset to all medium and large companies. The HR department handles a variety of tasks for the company, including employee benefits, training, discipline and other tasks that work directly with the employees of the company. An HR manager needs a number of skills in order to run an efficient, organized HR department. These skills include organization, multi-tasking, knowledge of professional development and leadership skills.

 

Employment law

Employment law is a set of laws that affect workplace conduct and fair practices. Some types of laws set forth for employment issues include affirmative action, discrimination and employee benefits.
Try: The Employment Law Information Network is a resource for HR staff and managers that offers news and educational information on a variety of federal and state employment law issues.

Retention

Retention is the process of keeping skilled, successful employees at a specific company. Retention can succeed with perks and benefits for the employee, including vacation time, sick leave and recognition programs.
Try: HR Hero offers a number of articles related to employee retention and motivation.

Competency assessment

A competency assessment is a measure of the performance of an individual employee based on criteria that meets the requirements for what a company deems as standard performance.
Try: Career Training offers detailed information on competency assessments in the workplace and how they can find the strengths and weaknesses in employees.

Employee development, human resources development

Employee development is the specific education and training of new employees. Employee development can also refer to an employee's continued education or retraining.
Try: The Society for Human Resources Management offers many educational resources to learn more about organizational and employee development through a company's HR office.

Performance review

A performance review is a written evaluation of an employee's success to show how well he or she has performed for a specific amount of time. This is given to the employee and used as a learning tool on areas where the employee needs to improve.
Try: Performance Review offers written examples of performance reviews for a variety of positions.

Succession planning

Succession planning is another way that HR management can help employees determine their strengths and weaknesses. Succession planning is a way top executives are evaluated by senior management. This helps to prepare backup options for senior officials in the company.
Try: The National Center for State Courts offers frequently asked questions about succession planning and how human resource management is involved in the process.

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