My Account
One of the most common mistakes business owners or managers make when hiring staff is to rush the recruitment and on-boarding process, according to HR specialist Thelma French.
“You can wind up hiring the wrong person, which could mean you have to repeat the whole process,” French says. “This can be disruptive, time-consuming and costly.”
French has been working in the area of human resources for more than 30 years. She was HR manager with Fairfax Media, founder the Youth Suicide Awareness Trust Yellow Ribbon and GM Cure Kids. She started her own business Thelma French & Associates 13 years ago.
“It’s this combined experience that gives me the insight to understand business requirements and the ability to provide strategic advice,” French says.
“I believe in positive HR, knowing this adds tremendous value to the bottom line and how the company is perceived, both internally and externally.”
A move to Sandspit three years ago has seen French extend her successful Auckland business to Warkworth to provide specialist HR advice and support. She says she plans to do this by building ongoing relationships with local companies and being, in effect, their HR manager, available as and when required.
“One of the toughest challenges businesses face at the moment is trying to understand all the legislation relating to the employment relationship.”
French says that having what she refers to as “solid HR foundations” and experienced HR support reduces stress and anxiety for both managers and staff, improves productivity and decreases absenteeism. Not having these things in place can result in HR issues being stressful, time consuming, expensive and will undoubtedly take the focus away from the positive aspects of the business, she says.
A Justice of the Peace since May 1989, Thelma is also a qualified life coach. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, sailing, travelling, the gym and just enjoying life.
