Over the years, we have been approached again and again by companies asking if we could support their internal HR person behind the scenes. They wanted their HR team to grow in confidence, capability, and judgment, while still keeping their structure lean. We have always been happy to help, and it has become some of the most rewarding work we do. 

Today, we are excited to officially offer this support as a dedicated service called HR for HR. 

Why we created HR for HR 

Small HR teams often carry the same level of responsibility as larger departments, but with fewer resources. Junior team members may be navigating complex situations for the first time. More senior HR leaders may have no peer to act as a sounding board. Executives may want to ensure their HR function is aligned with legislation and best practices without adding permanent headcount. 

HR for HR gives these organizations an affordable and reliable way to strengthen their HR bench. It is a blend of coaching, mentorship, strategic HR guidance, and real-time support tailored to the career stage of the HR professional and organizational needs. 

A client story 

One of the many companies that inspired this service was a fast-growing tech start-up with a team of about 40 employees. Their HR Coordinator was driven, capable, and eager to build a long-term HR career. This person was completing an HR certificate program and doing their best to learn on the job. The challenge was that the rest of the leadership team had little to no HR experience, and the company was scaling quickly. 

They want to treat their people well. They want to handle issues correctly. They want to make good decisions that protect both the organization and their employees. They simply need guidance. 

Through HR for HR, our consultant met with the HR Coordinator every week to talk through upcoming tasks, employment issues, documentation, legislative requirements, and best practices. It was a mix of mentorship, on-the-spot practical advice, and professional development. 

We also met monthly with the CEO to discuss broader HR matters, emerging risks, and opportunities to build the HR Coordinator’s skills. This created a steady, supportive loop that strengthens the individual and the organization at the same time. 

What HR for HR offers 

HR for HR is a flexible service designed to meet the needs of small or solo HR teams. This support helps organizations: 

• Improve HR decision-making 

• Reduce legal and people-related risk 

• Develop HR capability faster 

• Retain their HR team through increased confidence and support 

• Gain access to experienced HR insight without growing headcount 

Support can be provided weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or on an as-needed basis. Sessions can focus on daily HR tasks, employee relations coaching, strategic HR planning, or guidance on sensitive and complex situations. 

Strengthening HR strengthens your entire organization 

When HR professionals feel supported, everyone benefits. Employees get clearer guidance. Leaders get better advice. The organization becomes more resilient. HR for HR gives companies a way to invest in their people function without overextending their internal capacity. 

We are thrilled to officially offer this service, thanks to the many organizations that have asked for it over the years. If you are an HR team of one or a small HR team looking for steady, practical, experienced support, we’re here for you! 

 

Michelle MacFadgen, CPHR, is the Director, Client Engagement at uptreeHR, an outsourced Human Resource department for small to medium-sized businesses. Michelle and the team are based in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

To book a complimentary 30-minute consult with Michelle, click here.