Employee Wellness Programs – Why They Matter

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Employee Wellness Programs

While most employers would love to have an employee who works hard, comes in early, stays late, and always goes the extra mile no matter the cost, there definitely comes a point where all that stress catches up to a person and can lead to long-term negative health consequences. Physical and mental health of your employees should always be a top priority for your business. I think we’re at that point where it is generally agreed by the majority of the population that peak mental and physical wellness leads to improved productivity, quality, and overall performance on the job.

Employee Wellness programs have several benefits. We can generally agree that employees who are physically active and take measures to protect their health are happier employees with lower stress levels, good attendance (and less sick days), higher productivity, and higher engagement. When you have more happy employees in the office, this definitely resonates and there is likely less stress in the air. As well, your business can experience far less workplace injuries and the burden on your benefits program can be reduced when employees are engaged in managing their wellness.

An Employee Wellness Program can be designed and implemented in a matter of months. More and more, we are seeing the majority of Canada’s Top Employers recognized as such because of their employee wellness programs. Outlined below are some potential components and activities to consider as part of your Wellness Program.

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

This is your starting point after a group benefits plan. I can think of so many examples over the years where an EAP Program has helped considerably in managing employee crisis. These programs can provide support with substance abuse, personal issues, post-traumatic event support, and can also provide advice in the areas of personal finance and legal issues.

Fitness Activities

Whether you arrange for fitness or yoga classes on-site or off-site, this is a great way to break up the day and provide a little Zen when it’s needed most. I know of some companies who bring on a fitness instructor to conduct a session in their in-house gym and add extra time to the lunch break. As well, some companies choose to bring in an instructor to provided classes outside in the summer months.

It’s also not a bad idea to promote after work running or bike clubs. Giving employees options for activities before, during, or after work is a great way to promote mental and physical wellness.

Community Partnerships

Getting out into the community as an organization can be very rewarding and can help boost positive vibes in the workplace as well, especially when your organization is out supporting a cause that is important for you and your employees. It’s never a bad idea to setup a volunteer day for your employees or to facilitate fundraisers for specific causes.

Learning Workshops

Arrange for workshops to provide employees information on a variety of topics. There are a lot of workshops that experts will hold for a reasonable fee to discuss topics important to employees. I’ve brought in experts in personal finance, nutrition, ergonomics, smoking cessation, domestic violence, and mental health to educate employees.

We’ve just named a few programs or ideas, but the list goes on. Don’t forget about group benefits plans, social clubs, or other team building functions that can go the extra mile for employees who may be struggling with physical or mental health issues.

When you are ready for setting up an Employee Wellness Program, keep these steps in mind:

1.    Set a clear and achievable goal. Be mindful on what your trying to achieve and establish a comprehensive strategy and plans that will have a direct impact.

2.    Setup a wellness committee or at least have a dedicated employee or small team to coordinate activities to execute your strategy.

3.    Establish a budget!

4.    Engage your employees to gauge what types of activities they’d like to see the company promote. This will be important if you choose to form partnerships in the community.

5.    Communicate, communicate, communicate!

Keep an eye out for our future blogs, where we discuss important human resources topics for your business. 

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Enhancing Workplace Dynamics: Impact HR's Respect in the Workplace 3-Day Workshop

In an era where fostering a culture of respect, equity, diversity, and inclusion is paramount, Impact HR proudly presents its transformative 3-day workshop on Respect in the Workplace. With a deep understanding of the legislation and Human Rights guidelines and the importance of creating an inclusive work environment, this comprehensive program aims to raise awareness, provide leadership skills, and equip participants with the knowledge to combat discrimination, harassment, and promote a respectful workplace.

At Impact HR, we are committed to staying at the forefront of knowledge and training in order to provide the most up-to-date and effective strategies for creating respectful work environments. We constantly strive to explore emerging trends, innovative approaches, and exciting new tactics that promote respect, equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. By staying informed about the latest developments, we ensure that our workshops deliver the most relevant and valuable information to our participants. Our dedication to continuous improvement drives us to discover new ways of doing things and to embrace the ever-evolving landscape of fostering respect in the workplace.

Day 1: The Employee Module - Building Awareness for Respect in the Workplace (7 hours)

Day 1 of the workshop focuses on building awareness and understanding of respect in the workplace. Participants explore the significance of respect in creating a positive workplace culture, learn about different forms of discrimination and their legal implications, identify and address unconscious biases, embrace an understanding of equity, diversity, and inclusion, enhance communication skills for positive relationships, and gain practical knowledge of psychological safety and maintaining a respectful work environment.

Day 2: Respectful Leadership - Empowering Leaders for a Respectful Workplace (7 hours)

Day 2 of the workshop focuses on developing leaders as catalysts for fostering a respectful workplace culture. Participants explore the responsibilities of leaders in promoting respect, learn effective communication strategies for inclusive leadership, delve into team building and leveraging diversity, acquire conflict resolution skills for prompt resolution and understanding, and cultivate self-awareness to lead by example in promoting a culture of respect through consistent and fair practices.

Day 3: Respect in the Workplace and Anti-Harassment Policy Training (7 hours)

On the final day of the workshop, participants gain comprehensive knowledge on creating and maintaining a respectful work environment, with a focus on addressing harassment and implementing robust reporting and investigation procedures. They explore the definition and various forms of harassment, learn about the legal obligations and detrimental effects of harassment, and understand the importance of having comprehensive anti-harassment policies and procedures in place. Participants also gain practical knowledge on reporting concerns, conducting fair investigations, and promoting prevention through ongoing training and education to raise awareness, promote respectful behaviors, and create a safe and inclusive work environment.

Impact HR’s Respect in the Workplace 3-Day Workshop empowers both employees and leaders with the knowledge, skills, and resources to foster a culture of respect, equity, diversity, and inclusion. By addressing the importance of respectful leadership, anti-harassment policies, and effective reporting and investigation procedures, participants will be equipped to create a safe and inclusive work environment where every individual feels respected, valued, and empowered. This comprehensive workshop is an investment in building a stronger and more harmonious workforce, ultimately leading to increased employee satisfaction, productivity, and organizational success.

Participants of Impact HR’s Respect in the Workplace 3-Day Workshop may be eligible for the Canada-Alberta Job Grant, a training program where employers can apply on behalf of their present or future employees for eligible training costs. With funding provided by the Government of Canada through the Workforce Development Agreement, eligible employers can receive two-thirds of the training costs, up to $10,000 per trainee per fiscal year. The grant covers direct training costs such as tuition fees, textbooks, and required materials. To apply, employers can access the Canada-Alberta Job Grant Portal and submit the necessary application and training completion forms.

Welcome to Impact HR's 3-day Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Workshop

We are excited to invite you to the Impact HR 3-day Equity and Diversity Workshop, a revolutionary learning experience designed to empower you as an agent of change in fostering a more inclusive and equitable workplace environment. Through this comprehensive course, you will gain valuable insights, tools, and strategies to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (EDI) within your organization.

Day 1: What is Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and how can I as an employee be better informed in the workplace? (7 Hours)

Are you eager to foster a more inclusive and equitable workplace environment? Join us on Day 1 as we delve into the core concepts of diversity, equity, and inclusion (EDI). Discover the power of embracing diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences, and learn how these values can drive innovation and success within your organization.

During this engaging workshop, we will explore various aspects of EDI, including the importance of awareness and empathy in creating an inclusive workplace culture. You’ll gain valuable insights into identifying and challenging biases, both conscious and unconscious, and develop strategies to promote equal opportunities for all employees.

Day 2: Equity and Diversity and Inclusion in Leadership (7 Hours)

Leadership plays a pivotal role in shaping a company’s culture and promoting equity and diversity. On Day 2, we will focus on equipping leaders with the tools and knowledge needed to drive meaningful change. Through interactive sessions and case studies, we will explore the challenges and opportunities that arise in leadership roles when it comes to fostering inclusivity and promoting diversity.

Attendees will gain practical strategies for creating an inclusive leadership style, building diverse teams, and championing equity throughout the organization. Whether you’re an aspiring leader or an established one, this workshop will empower you to become an agent of change within your workplace and drive the transformation towards a more inclusive and equitable future.

Day 3: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Workplace Policy and Procedure Training (7 Hours)

Policies and procedures are the backbone of any organization’s commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. On the final day of our workshop, we will dive deep into the development and implementation of workplace policies that support and promote EDI. Through expert-led training, participants will learn how to align policies and procedures with EDI principles, ensuring fairness and equity in all areas of the organization.

We will explore best practices in policy creation, including recruitment and hiring practices, promotion and advancement opportunities, employee resource groups, and addressing workplace discrimination and harassment. This training will equip attendees with the knowledge and skills needed to create a more inclusive and welcoming work environment for all.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to enhance your understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and make a positive impact on your workplace. Join us for the Impact HR 3-day Equity Diversity and Inclusion Workshop and become a catalyst for change. Register today!

Training & Development

TRAINING PROGRAM DESIGN

Over the years, we’ve developed many training modules that have helped the people of an organization succeed. We tailor our offerings to your exact needs and can focus on building the specific knowledge, skills, and abilities that your organization requires. 

COURSE FACILITATION

Our instructors engage your learners to ensure they get the most out of training. We offer a diverse mix of in-depth training, lunch ‘n learns, and seminars. Listed below is our course offerings.

You can also access our course catalogue by clicking here.

HR POLICY AND PROCEDURE

  • Anti-Harassment and Workplace Violence
  • Alcohol & Drugs
  • Return-to-Work and Disability Management
  • Administering Policies Consistently

MANAGEMENT

  • Decision Making and Understanding the Big Picture
  • Delegating and Directing Work

STRATEGIC PLANNING

  • Strategic Goal Deployment
  • Workforce Planning
  • HR Management
  • Human Resources for Small Business
  • Key Performance Indicators

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT

  • Recruitment and Selection
  • Interviewing Techniques
  • Coaching Employees
  • Performance Management
  • Succession Planning
  • Workplace Investigations
  • Terminations

COMMUNICATION

  • Effective Communication
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Facilitating Meetings
  • Managing Difficult Conversations

CORPORATE COMPLIANCE

  • Business Conduct and Ethics
  • Diversity and Inclusion
  • Privacy in the Workplace

LEADERSHIP

  • Leading Employees
  • Building Teams
  • Change Management
  • Employee Engagement

TRAINING

  • On-the-Job Training

LEAN METHODOLOGY

  • Lean Manufacturing

HEALTH & SAFETY

  • Managing Health & Safety Incidents

OUR COURSE CATALOGUE

You can access our course catalogue by clicking here. The course catalogue outlines the course duration, fee per learner, minimum class sizes, course description, and learning outcomes for each course.

 We also work with a network of certified coaches and experts who can support with MBTI and DiSC Assessments.

CANADA-ALBERTA JOB GRANT PROGRAM

You may be eligible to receive funding for our courses under the Canada-Alberta Job Grant Program, which may cover two-thirds of the cost to a maximum of $10,000 per employee per year.

See the link below to learn more about the Canada-Alberta Job Grant Program or contact us for more information.

https://www.alberta.ca/canada-alberta-job-grant.aspx

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Recruitment Services

FULL CYCLE RECRUITMENT SERVICES

We offer full cycle recruitment services to help you attract and retain talent that is the best “fit” for your business. Our services include:

  • Job Descriptions and Postings
  • Sourcing Candidates and Screening
  • Interviews
  • Pre-Employment Selection Testing
  • Background Checks
  • Employment Agreements
  • Orientation and Onboarding Support

WE HIRE THE FOLLOWING TYPES OF EMPLOYEES AND INDUSTRIES:

  • Executive Leadership
  • Accounting & Finance
  • Human Resources
  • Information Technology
  • Sales and Marketing
  • Operations Management
  • Engineering
  • Project Management
  • Purchasing and Supply Chain
  • Manufacturing
  • Health and Safety
  • Cannabis
  • Retail
  • Tourism and Hospitality
  • Home Care Providers
  • Healthcare
  • Physiotherapists
  • Front Line Employees

YOUR INVESTMENT

As we are your outsourced HR department, we provide hiring services as if we were your internal recruiter, meaning we bill on an hourly basis. This means you are not paying an excessive fee for staff. 

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Workplace Investigations

Workplace investigations can be extremely difficult and complex, and if not handled properly, lead to extremely negative consequences for an organization. Our firm takes the pressure off by following a methodical process in conducting workplace investigations, and will ensure it is backed up with credible documentation and recommendations.

TYPES OF INVESTIGATIONS

We offer investigation services primarily in the following areas:

  • Harassment/Bullying
  • Workplace Violence
  • Policy Violations (theft, fraud, insubordination, etc.)
  • Performance

Not only have we investigated complaints against front line employees, but we have investigated incidents where senior managers and executives have been named as Respondents.

HOW IS OUR PROCESS STRUCTURED?

Our investigation process is very methodical, following a very specific investigation framework. This is to ensure the investigation is viewed as objective and credible. Once we have an understanding of the complaint, we will conduct interviews with relevant parties. After all interviews are complete, we summarize the data and provide analysis, findings, and recommendations in a formal independent investigation report. As a last step, we will schedule a debrief meeting to review the report, findings, and recommendations.

WHAT DO OUR SERVICES COST?

Investigations are different based on complexity and how many parties are involved. Each investigation requires time to review the complaint, prepare for meetings, conduct the interviews, prepare a report, and conduct a debrief meeting. Our investigation work is fee based at an hourly rate of $130 per hour.

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Outplacement Services

WHAT ARE OUTPLACEMENT SERVICES?

Outplacement Services are intended to support both management and employees through the transition process of layoffs, restructuring, or terminations. For employees, they are intended to not only help navigate the job market but also transition to a new position and organization.

OUTPLACEMENT SERVICES WE OFFER

  • Manager training for layoff meetings.
  • Workshops for survivors to help adjust to the new organization.
  • Employee engagement initiatives.
  • Resume and cover letter writing for terminated employees.
  • Training for building interview skills for terminated employees.
  • Development/editing of LinkedIn Profile.
  • Coaching for building a personal brand using social media.
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Employee Terminations

Terminating an employee, whether for cause, without cause, or during a workforce reduction can be extremely difficult. Terminations can present a large degree of risk to a business if not handled properly, whether it is legal and financial risk or physical risk during a termination meeting. We can help alleviate the stress and ensure employee terminations are done smoothly and respectfully. Our services for terminations are listed below:

  • Logistical planning (in the case of a large reduction)
  • Document Preparation
  • Training for management
  • On-site support for the termination meeting
  • Communication messaging for large reductions
employmee terminations
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Policy and Employee Handbook

We can support your business with policies and procedures that will protect your business from legislative and reputation risk. Our consultants have many years of experience in developing policies, communicating to employees, and providing policy training.

Having workplace policies in place can benefit you in many ways. They outline rules and standard behaviours expected from employees, set guidelines for dealing with routine situations, promote fairness and consistency, and provide a mechanism for communicating to employees.

Listed below is a sample list of the policies we can support your business with:

performance management
  • Code of Conduct
  • Confidentiality
  • Non-Solicitation
  • Intellectual Property
  • Privacy in the Workplace
  • Alcohol & Drug
  • Anti-Harassment
  • Social Media
  • Progressive Discipline
  • Travel and Entertainment
  • Hours of Work and Overtime
  • Leave of Absence
  • Vacation
  • General Holiday
  • Personal Time
  • Return-to-Work and Disability Management
  • Company Vehicle
  • Education Assistance
  • Job Postings
  • Mobile Allowance
  • Occupational Health & Safety
  • Emergency Preparedness
  • First Aid
  • Workplace Inspections
  • Workplace Investigations
  • Hazard Identification, Recognition, and Control
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Health & Safety

Are you struggling to keep up with changing OHS laws or not sure where to start? We offer a comprehensive set of services to help you navigate your requirements under OHS and implement solutions that will protect your employees and company stakeholders.

SERVICES

  • Occupational Health and Safety Policy
  • Injury Reporting Systems and Procedures
  • OHS Committee Development and Sustainment
  • OHS Programs
  • Safety Orientations and Checklists
  • Worksite Inspection Templates
  • Workplace Investigations
  • Checklists for Hazard Identification, Evaluation, and Control
  • Standardized Work Procedures
  • Emergency Evacuation and Preparedness
  • Return-to-Work Policy and Procedures
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Succession Planning

SUCCESSION PLANNING AND TALENT ASSESSMENTS

Through many years of experience in leading succession planning programs, we offer a simple step-by-step process that will elevate the overall talent level of your company. We’ll help you figure out who your future leaders are and recommend development plans that will put them over the top.

Our process for identifying and assessing talent, and building development plans is straightforward and involves the following:

  • Identifying Required Competencies
  • Identifying Talent and Conducting a Talent Assessment
  • Generating Development Plans
  • Developing a Workforce Plan
  • Monitoring and Evaluation
succession planning
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Compensation & Benefits

PAY BAND AND INCENTIVE PLAN DESIGN

We will help you design pay bands that are based on valid market research, fit your competitive position in the market, and ensure pay equity. 

We also have considerable experience in designing incentive plans. We can design a new plan aimed at driving behaviours that will elevate the performance of your organization. 

BENEFITS PROGRAM DESIGN

Our process for designing your benefits plan focuses on getting the most value out of the plan for your employees while managing the cost structure to a level that is sustainable for your business. We’ll work with you to determine the right mix of benefits offerings and coverage levels. We can also be an important liaison with your benefits consultants and carrier, ensuring your best interests are kept front and center.

compensations&benefits
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Employee Engagement

ENGAGEMENT ASSESSMENT

We offer a few methods to help diagnose your engagement issues. Hiring a 3rd party can be advantageous as employees may feel safer providing feedback due to the independent relationship. We can support in the following ways:

  • Focus Groups
  • Engagement Surveys
  • Exit Interviews

We have many years of experience in organizing various initiatives to solicit employee feedback. From survey design to facilitating focus groups, we know how to dig deep into engagement issues and develop effective solutions to increase engagement.

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Performance Management

PROGRAMS AND SURVEYS

Performance Management is a complex area in human resources and can be administered in a variety of ways. We have worked with several organizations in creating and administering complex performance management mechanisms, conducting 360-degree evaluations, and providing training and coaching for supervisors and management.

While performance management can be administered in many shapes and sizes, our focus is building a culture of accountability. This involves supporting you in establishing goals for your direct reports, gaining acceptance of those goals, objectively measuring performance, and providing timely and ongoing feedback.

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Organizational Design

We analyze your business and advise you on the organizational design and structure that will allow you to meet your strategic business goals. Our goal is to ensure you have an efficient operation and that the right people are deployed in the right positions.

HEADCOUNT FORECASTING

Proactive planning and forecasting can help you become more productive and efficient. We help you plan for the future by implementing robust forecasting techniques that properly anticipate required headcount and potential organizational changes. 

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Business Process Improvement

At Impact HR, we have several years of manufacturing experience to draw on to help you lead your lean initiatives. We’ve studied world leading lean manufacturing systems and we use a proven approach in helping you become more efficient.

We’ve led many lean initiatives over the years that have allowed various companies to thrive in cost competitive industries. We’ve also applied the same thinking to the field of human resources. Through process mapping and HR program design, we maximize the efficiency of the HR department and allow you to earn a higher return on your people practices.

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Human Resources Information System (HRIS)

Our change management process allows you to be proactive, engage the right stakeholders, and enable the people of your organization to lead the change effort.

People instinctively don’t like change and can sometimes throw a wrench into your change effort. We have led many change initiatives over the years, many of which have resulted in improved business performance and increased engagement across the organization.

How can a Human Resources Information System (HRIS) help your business?

It can automate many processes within your HR function and relieve the burden of paper filing and manual data management for your HR team and management. Vacation, benefits, hiring, onboarding, and performance management are some areas of your HR function that can be streamlined and save your company in administrative and non-valued-added time.

Human Resource Info Systems
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Strategic Planning

We help you gain a clear understanding of the strategic goals of your company and the strategy in place to achieve those goals. We will also help ensure your HR priorities are aligned with the long-term direction of your company.

Not only are we equipped to develop strategic HR initiatives, but we can also help you formulate your mission, vision, and values. We work with you to analyze your internal and external environments and translate that data first into strategic goals and then into people solutions that make sense for your unique business.

We use a thorough planning model to help ensure you consider all your options and craft a business plan that will optimize your business results and maximize the contributions of your people.

strategic planning
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Performance Management

Performance Management is a complex area in human resources and can be administered in a variety of ways.
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Compensation and Benefits

Offering competitive compensation and benefits programs can help you attract top tier candidates and avoid loss of top performers to the competition.
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Human Resources Consulting Projects

We can support you business with a variety of HR projects that will help you build your human resources foundation. We have experience in planning and executing projects in the areas of performance management, employee engagement, compensation & benefits, succession planning, performance management, and health & safety. 

Health and Safety

Occupational Health and Safety is a dynamic and complex field. It’s important to ensure you are compliant with OHS laws and demonstrate your commitment to protect your employees and other stakeholders of the company.
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Employee Engagement

Finding new ways to engage your employees can substantially increase productivity. Employees who are engaged have a greater desire to remain with the organization, advocate for the organization, and exert extra effort above & beyond the call of duty.
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Succession Planning

Succession Planning allows you to proactively identify the skills you need to be competitive long-term, develop the bench strength of your organization, and plan for changes in leadership.
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Policies, Handbooks, and Employee Relations

Navigating employee relations issues can be time consuming and complex. The employee-employer relationship is very dynamic and is impacted by several pieces of legislation, such as human rights law, employment standards, and Occupational Health & Safety. Employers must take precautions to ensure they do not expose the organization to risk that could result in hefty lawsuits and long-term damage to their reputation. We offer many solutions to help you manage your relationship with employees and minimize legal exposure from changing legislation.

Please click on the images below to find out more information on our policy and employee handbook, employee terminations, and outplacement services.

Policy and Employee Handbooks

We can support your business with policies and procedures that will protect your business from legislative and reputation risk
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Employee Terminations

We can help alleviate the stress and ensure employee terminations are done smoothly and respectfully
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Outplacement Services

When your organization is going through a transition process and is faced with layoffs or organizational restructuring, we provide outplacement services so management are prepared to deal with the aftermath of layoffs and employees don’t miss a beat in the workforce.
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Strategic Human Resources Management

We offer a number of services that can support your business in achieving its strategic goals. Please click on the image beside to find out more information on our strategic planning, HRIS implementation, business efficiency improvements, or organizational planning/design services.

Strategic Planning

A business can become stagnant and fail to maximize the potential of its people if its HR and corporate strategy is not aligned.
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Business Efficiency​

Process efficiency improvements can be a game changer, especially for a company in an industry where margins are tight. Adopting lean methodologies and a continuous improvement mindset can help your company with cost reductions and minimizing waste.
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Human Resource Info Systems (HRIS)​

What drives change in a business? It can come from just about anywhere. Effectively dealing with change puts a company in a better position to compete long-term.
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Organizational Design

Alignment of all your HR practices is critical in allowing your company to achieve its strategic goals. If a company does not properly deploy its resources, it may not be able to capitalize on opportunities that would allow it to grow and prosper.
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Our aim is to deliver solutions that will protect your business from risk, improve employee relations and engagement, and maximize the contributions of your workforce.

We offer clients diverse services aimed at supporting them in building a foundation for their human resources function. Our home is Edmonton, AB, but we support businesses throughout Alberta and across Canada. Please see our service offerings below.

impactHR is your dedicated outsourcing solution for human resources. Think of us as your fractional HR department. Whether you need us on an ongoing basis, for a one-time consulting project, or just need an occasional resource to ask questions when you’re dealing with an employee issue, we help ensure you have a strong HR foundation that will support your business. We work with any type and size of business, from startups, to small and medium enterprise, to multinational corporations.

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