10 characteristics of a HR trailblazer

10 characteristics of a HR trailblazer

In the fast-paced world of Human Resources, trailblazers are the individuals who navigate new territories and lead the way for others. They deliver significant value and are in high-demand from employers.

In a recent webinar for The Next Step Human Resources General Manager, Fiona Hocking, spoke about what it takes to become a HR trailblazer, touching on the need for strong commerciality, a curious mind and a willingness to say ‘yes’. It’s these characteristics and more, which empower HR professionals to shape the future of the field, advance their careers and make a lasting impact. Read on to learn more about the top 10 characteristics of a HR trailblazer.

1.    Nails the basics

While it sounds boring, mastering ‘HR essentials’ is a key part of being a trailblazer. Build trust and credibility with seamless BAU activities. For example ensure payroll, systems, communications and recruitment activities are running flawlessly.

At a recent Next Step webinar, Human Resources General Manager Fiona Hocking warned that it’s much harder to lead change or get a seat at the table if you haven’t nailed the basics. “When the fundamentals run smoothly, you create the stability and get the buy-in to take-on new challenges,” she said.

2.    Develops strong commerciality

Commercial acumen is a characteristic seen in many successful HR professionals. This involves knowing an organisation inside-out… and not just from a people perspective.

“Look at it from different angles. Learn how operations work. Understand the financials. Who are your customers? What’s the broader market you’re working within?” recommends Fiona Hocking. “With this commerciality, you can better enable the business,” she adds.

Maintain commercial focus, by considering not only ‘what’ you’re doing, but also ‘why’. Firmly anchor your work to the organisation’s focus and priority areas. Aligning (and realigning) your efforts to support strategic goals creates stability amidst uncertainty and help trailblazers navigate change.

3.    Supports their thinking with data

HR trailblazers typically value high-quality data and know how to use it to full effect. “Great HR partners have accurate information to share with their leaders. Strong data builds credibility and opens-up the conversation,” says Fiona Hocking. “There's a lot of information to get your head around. Think about what it means in your own part of the business. Look for connections, translate into future strategies and begin influencing,” she adds.

Having the right data only forms part of the story. Trailblazers also need to know how to interpret information tell a compelling story with numbers. 

4.    Has a curious mind

• Having a curious mind opens doors to new possibilities, fuels continuous learning, and fosters innovative thinking.
• Build creative time into your work schedule and find ways to stimulate your curiosity including:
• Reading widely on a broad range topics
• Reviewing research and case studies e.g. Gartner surveys
• Keeping up with global news and trends
• Networking across different sectors
• Connecting with HR colleagues and discussing what’s happening on the ground.

Fiona Hocking recommends starting a new organisation (or a new project) with an open mind. “Be proud of your craft but explore all ideas to understand which theory or framework is right for the business context,” she suggest.

5.    Says ‘yes’ to the unknown

Expand your horizons and open new doors by saying ‘yes’ to opportunities, even when they push you out of your comfort zone. “Don’t close down ideas too quickly or be limited by what you don’t know. Show you’re willing to try new things,” says Fiona Hocking.

Embracing different opportunities will broaden your skillset, expand your network, and demonstrate your capability to take on challenges, paving the way for personal and professional growth. “Bigger isn’t always better. Don’t be afraid of a sideways step if it adds to your toolbox of tricks,” says Fiona Hocking.

The Next Step’s Associate Consultant Alex Jennings agrees. “A career move might not bring more money, but it could give you a new title, cross-sector experience or different skills and capabilities,” he says.

New experiences build resilience and adaptability. Even setbacks offer a valuable lesson. Even when things don't go as planned, there is an opportunity to gain insights and grow.

6.    Cares for themselves as well as others

You can’t show up as a leader if you’re not looking after yourself. “We see successful HR trailblazers leaving roles and derailing their careers because they’re caught up in politics or burnt-out,” says The Next Step’s Managing Consultant, Anica Weereratne. “Self-care isn’t selfish… it’s crucial for those wanting to last the distance and lead by example.”

While Fiona Hocking acknowledges the pressure to “keep delivering”, she says targeted delivery is more likely to get you a seat at the table. “Be great at the basics, then be focused. Choose two or three things that really count and do them well. In time this will give you licence to do more,” she says.

She also recommends ‘sacred time’ which preserves favourite activities, even during busy periods. “Be confident to set your own boundaries,” Fiona Hocking says.

7.    Understands & interprets global trends

As a trailblazer you should scan the horizon for future trends, but also maintain focus on what you need to achieve in the here and now.

“Long term planning is needed for talent, leadership, development and a whole host of other areas, but don't get so far ahead of the game that you trip yourself up,” warns Fiona Hocking.

Global trends currently impacting HR include:

• Global uncertainty and fiscal instability
• AI, big data and analytics
• the rising prominence of ESG
• Human wellbeing
• The future of work (incl. making hybrid a success for everybody)

Having a global outlook is an important part of being a HR trailblazer, but Fiona Hocking warns that trends should be translated to ensure they are fit for purpose. Sometimes “big, shiny and new” isn’t necessarily better, she says.

8.    Is a strong influencer

As a HR trailblazer, you will be expected to help the business navigate transformation and change. Key to this is communication and influencing skills. “Yes, you've got the technical expertise, but it's how you leverage it and how you build those relationships to actually make an impact,” explains Fiona Hocking.

Achieving outcomes and getting things done involves building relationships across the business, but particularly amongst your leadership peers.

9.    Are self-aware

Strong self-awareness allows HR trailblazers to leverage their core strengths and work on areas for improvement.

“People who self-reflect and know where they want to go are at a distinct advantage in their career,” says Anica Weereratne. “Connect what you’re great at, with your ‘must haves’, but be aware that your ‘must haves’ will change over time” adds Fiona Hocking.

Self awareness will also help you navigate the problems and politics that exist within all workplaces. “Don't become the noise,” Fiona Hocking says. “Try and build out of it. On the personal front, it means you are coming to the table with solutions, you're not coming to the table with politics.”

10. Strives for progress over perfection

Instead of aiming for flawless results, HR trailblazers seek to get runs on the board and continuous improvement. These characteristics help them to adapt to changing challenges, learn from experiences, and achieve tangible outcomes.

Fiona Hocking recommends the 80/20 rule. “Just get on and do it,” she encourages “Get runs on the board and execute.”

Qualities of a HR Trailblazer

• Openness to opportunities: Say 'yes' to every opportunity, understanding that it can lead to unexpected paths and new avenues for growth and development.
• Embrace the unknown: They are not limited by what they don't know. Instead, they demonstrate a willingness to learn, explore, and embrace new challenges and experiences.
• Avoid premature closure: They keep an open mind and avoid shutting down ideas too quickly, recognizing that there is value in diverse perspectives and unconventional approaches.
• Diverse experiences: They understand that career progression doesn't always have to be upward and are open to sideways moves or different environments to broaden their skill set and knowledge base.

How we can help

Becoming a HR trailblazer doesn’t involve rocket science, but it does require self-awareness and intention. Those wanting to be future leaders should take a planned approach to their career. Map out where you want to go, and consider what it will take to get there.

As well as saying ‘yes’ to opportunities that arise, invest in your own professional growth and development. Volunteering for new projects, gaining cross-sector experience, undertaking formal study, or seeking mentoring/coaching are some of the options for growth available.

Forming a long-term relationship with one of The Next Step’s specialist HR recruitment consultants will also be beneficial for your career.

We’ll listen carefully to what you are looking for and help you plan the right steps to support your short and long-term ambitions.