Introduction

If you missed our first article on the essential role of the human resources advisor, we invite you to read it to understand the basics of this exciting job here: HR Advisor part 1 . In this second part, we delve deeper into the additional responsibilities of the HR Advisor, focusing on occupational health and safety assurance, internal communications management, and advising on union relations.

Occupational Health and Safety Assurance

The health and safety of employees is a top priority for any company that cares about its people. The Human Resources Advisor plays a central role in creating and maintaining a healthy and safe work environment. It not only ensures compliance with the applicable legal standards, but also promotes the physical and mental well-being of all employees.

The HR Advisor is responsible for developing occupational health and safety policies, in accordance with provincial legislation, such as Quebec’s Act Respecting Occupational Health and Safety. It conducts risk assessments to identify potential hazards in the workplace. These assessments make it possible to put in place appropriate preventive measures, such as the installation of protective equipment, the modification of work procedures or the layout of spaces.

It also conducts training to raise employee awareness of safety best practices. These sessions can cover topics such as the correct use of equipment, emergency protocols or the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders. By informing and training staff, the human resources advisor reduces the risk of accidents and injuries.

Mental well-being is just as important. The HR advisor can set up employee assistance programs, offering psychological support in case of stress, burnout, or personal difficulties. It promotes a company culture that values work-life balance, recognizing that fulfilled employees are more productive and engaged.

In the event of an accident or incident, the human resources advisor coordinates the necessary steps. He ensures the medical follow-up of the employees concerned, manages declarations to the competent authorities and analyzes the causes to avoid future occurrences. This responsiveness is essential to maintain employee trust and ensure compliance with legal obligations.

The role of the HR advisor in occupational health and safety not only helps to protect employees, but also to improve the overall performance of the company. A safe and healthy work environment promotes job satisfaction, reduces absenteeism, and strengthens the company’s reputation as an employer of choice.

In the following sections, we will continue to explore how the Human Resources Advisor facilitates internal communication and manages relations with unions to ensure a smooth and efficient organization.

Internal Communications Management

Internal communication is essential to the success and cohesion of a company. The human resources advisor plays a central role in ensuring that information flows efficiently between management and employees. It ensures that important messages, such as policy changes, strategic announcements or corporate initiatives, are conveyed in a clear, transparent and accessible manner to everyone.

The HR advisor develops communication strategies adapted to the needs of the organization. It selects the most appropriate channels to disseminate information, whether it is emails, internal newsletters, team meetings, intranet platforms or corporate social networks. By adapting the message to its audience, it facilitates understanding and promotes employee engagement.

It also fosters a culture of open and constructive dialogue. By creating spaces where employees can express their ideas, ask questions and share their concerns, the human resources advisor helps to strengthen the sense of belonging and motivation of staff. This can take the form of internal surveys, discussion forums or participatory workshops.

During periods of change or sensitive situations, its role becomes even more crucial. The HR advisor prepares specific communication plans to support these transitions, ensuring that employees are proactively informed and that their concerns are addressed. Effective communication in these moments can reduce uncertainty, prevent misunderstandings, and maintain trust within the company.

In addition, the human resources advisor trains and supports managers in their own communications with their teams. It helps them develop their leadership skills, guiding them on how to give constructive feedback, manage appraisal interviews, or conduct productive meetings.

By promoting smooth and transparent internal communication, the HR advisor helps create a positive work environment where everyone feels informed, listened to and valued. This not only promotes employee satisfaction and retention, but also operational efficiency and the achievement of company goals.

In the next section, we will discuss the role of the Human Resources Advisor in the Union Relations Council, another key aspect of their responsibilities within the organization.

Council on relations with trade unions

In companies where employees are unionized, the human resources advisor plays a critical role in managing relations with union representatives. It serves as a bridge between management and the union, working to maintain an open and constructive dialogue to ensure harmonious labour relations.

The HR Advisor actively participates in collective bargaining, which results in the signing of collective agreements defining working conditions, wages, benefits, hours, and other essential aspects of employment. His role is to represent the interests of the company while respecting the rights and concerns of employees.

The HR Advisor’s main responsibilities in this context include:

• Preparation of negotiations: It analyses the union’s demands, assesses their impact on the company and prepares negotiation strategies in collaboration with management. This requires a thorough understanding of the economic, legal and human issues.
• Conduct of negotiations: During bargaining sessions, the human resources advisor presents the company’s proposals, responds to the union’s demands and seeks mutually beneficial solutions. He must demonstrate diplomacy, patience and communication skills.
• Conflict Management: In the event of disagreements or conflicts, he intervenes to find amicable solutions. This may include mediation, third-party intervention, or the use of mechanisms provided for in the collective agreement.
• Application of collective agreements: Once the agreements have been concluded, the HR advisor ensures that they are implemented correctly. He informs managers and employees of the new provisions and ensures that the company’s policies are aligned with the terms of the agreement.
• Ongoing communication: He maintains a regular relationship with union representatives, holding meetings to discuss current concerns, anticipate potential problems, and maintain positive collaboration.

Key skills required:

• Knowledge of labour law: A thorough understanding of the laws and regulations governing labour relations in Quebec is essential. This includes the Labour Code, labour standards and relevant case law.
• Negotiation skills: The HR advisor must be able to negotiate effectively, looking for win-win solutions and preserving long-term relationships.
• Effective communication: The ability to communicate clearly, actively listen, and understand others’ perspectives is crucial to solving problems and avoiding misunderstandings.
• Conflict resolution: Knowing how to manage tensions and find constructive solutions is essential to maintain a healthy work environment.

The importance of the role of the HR advisor with the unions:

By working closely with unions, the Human Resources Advisor contributes to:

• Maintaining industrial peace: Positive relationships reduce the risk of strikes, slowdowns, or other disruptive actions.
• Improve employee morale: When employees feel that their concerns are addressed, their satisfaction and engagement increase.
• Ensure legal compliance: By complying with legal and contractual obligations, the company avoids costly litigation and protects its reputation.
• Promote productivity: A harmonious work environment allows employees to focus on their tasks, improving the overall performance of the company.

The role of the human resources advisor in relations with unions is complex and vital. By skillfully navigating between the needs of the business and the rights of employees, it helps to create a balance that benefits all stakeholders. His ability to manage negotiations, resolve conflicts, and maintain open communications is critical to the long-term success of the organization.

Embrace the strategic role of the human resources advisor

The job of human resources advisor is both diversified and strategic. As explored in this second part, this role encompasses crucial responsibilities such as ensuring occupational health and safety, managing internal communications, and advising on union relations. Whether you are interested in the salary of a human resources consultant or are looking for a job as a human resources consultant, it is clear that this position offers many opportunities to contribute to the success of a company while promoting the development and well-being of employees.

By combining communication, management, negotiation and analytical skills, the HR advisor plays an indispensable role in creating a positive and productive work environment. If you’re considering a rewarding career in human resources, this job could be the perfect path for you.

We hope that this in-depth exploration has given you a better understanding of the essential role that the human resources advisor plays within organizations in Quebec. Feel free to check out our first article if you missed it, and share your thoughts or questions in the comments below.

Source: Human Resources Management Consultant, Tasks of a Human Resources Advisor, The Advisory Role at the Heart of Human Resources Work, Human Resources Advisor: Job Description, Indeed, Workopolis