What is the difference between strategic HR and traditional HR?

The difference between strategic HR and traditional HR lies in how they approach managing people within your business.

Traditional HR focuses on the day-to-day tasks and administrative functions; it is operational. This is often what comes to mind when you hear the words ‘HR’ and it includes handling things like payroll, managing employee records, and addressing immediate employee issues. The main goal is to keep everything running smoothly and ensure compliance with laws and company policies.

Strategic HR, on the other hand, takes a broader, long-term view. It involves aligning HR practices with your overall business goals. Instead of just handling routine tasks, strategic HR focuses on planning for the future. This includes things like developing leadership programs, improving company culture, and designing initiatives that support your business growth and competitive advantage.

In essence, while traditional HR keeps things running day-to-day, strategic HR looks at how HR can help your business succeed in the long run by contributing to your overall strategy and goals. Both are important, but strategic HR adds value by helping shape the future of your business.