In the TV show “The Office,” regional manager Michael Scott viewed HR leader Toby Flenderson as a hindrance, not a help. As clueless as Michael could be, there’s a reason why viewers identified with his frustrations about dealing with HR. While the show exaggerates their conflict for comedic effect, it nonetheless reflects a common challenge in corporate America.

It’s time to change the perception of HR. C-suite colleagues sometimes view the HR department as a figurative principal’s office, whose focus on forms and policies does little to support the business. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

When I first came to Brighton Health Plan Solutions, the C-suite did not yet view HR as a partner in the business’s growth. Jim Cusumano, at the time our CFO and now our CEO, would be the first to admit he didn’t fully understand or appreciate HR’s role, viewing it more as a cost center than an important building block of the organization. But now, Jim is my most fervent supporter and partner.

How did that happen?

How CEOs and HR leaders can build a partnership

Jim and I have worked together for over 20 years, but it took about five years for us to build a true partnership. Over time, projects became collaborative, and conversations became healthy debates. Jim began to recognize HR’s contributions and influence. That didn’t happen by accident. My team and I repeatedly demonstrated that we understood the business and were key contributors to its success.

Throughout my experience at Brighton HPS, the following strategies have helped me develop fruitful relationships with executives, and can be beneficial in helping CEOs and HR leaders work more collaboratively:

1. Truly understand the business

Jim and I lead with business discussions. This should be the end game for all HR leaders—becoming a business partner with a passion for people.

Dive deep into the problems your company is solving, the products and solutions it offers, and the challenges it faces. Familiarize yourself with the company’s mission and stakeholders’ expectations. Become an expert in compliance and how to meet state and federal regulations.

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