Creative Names for Human Resources: Why The Name Matters
What’s in a HR Department Name?
The National Cash Register Company created the first Human Resources Department in 1901 following a bitter strike. Then referred to as “personnel,” the new department’s role was largely compliance-based, and focused on record keeping, workplace safety, wage management, and employee grievances.
Fast forward to the present. The role of a Human Resources department has come a long way in the last century. Does the name ‘Human Resources’ still fit today’s business landscape? What thoughts and feelings do employees attach to the words? Dilbert cartoonist Scott Adams hinted at the answer in the name chosen for Catbert’s job title.
“Evil HR Directors” aside, what words capture the essence of the modern Human Resource Department?
Modern HR Department Names
- People Operations – Google, Uber
- People @ – Facebook
- Employee Experience – Airbnb
- Partner (Human) Resources – Starbucks
- Human Capital – Deloitte
A Best Workplaces Name Reflects The Culture
Employee Success Department – Salesforce
Salesforce has been named to Fortune’s top 100 best workplaces list multiple times. The company’s Employee Success Department is a true reflection of that name. Salesforce gets the best work out of its people because of its culture of putting people first. And that begins with giving people the tools and resources to be successful, every day.
Does Your HR Team Name Suit Your Company’s Branding Efforts and Overall Identity?
Perhaps your HR team is in the process of exploring whether your approach, which might even include your department’s name, is up-to-date. Selecting a department name and philosophy is key to keeping your organization competitive so you can easily attract the most talented people to join your team.
ABR Can Help You Sort Out the Name Game
At ABR, we care about helping you find the best ways to find and keep the best job candidates on staff for the long haul. We can help you develop everything from the perfect name to resonate with your ideal job seekers to designing, developing, and implement an environment that helps increase productivity and reduce turnover.
About Us
ABR is a Workforce Solutions company that delivers award-winning staffing and recruiting services through three operating divisions: ABR Employment Services, ABR Professional Search and Kinsa Group. The company is headquartered in Madison, WI and founded in 1987.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in January, 2017 and updated in November, 2019. It was written by Joan Pajari, Senior Marketing Specialist.