Five Essential Traits of HR Leaders

Do You Have What It Takes to Succeed in HR Management?

To become an effective business leader, you must understand the broader operations and processes that drive organizational success. However, excelling as a human resources (HR) leader requires more than just business acumen. It demands a proactive and strategic approach to influence your organization in a positive way. 

An MS in Human Resources Management equips HR professionals with the technical skills and acumen to drive meaningful change and foster a thriving workplace. But there are some traits that successful HR leaders naturally possess.

Five Qualities the Top Human Resources Leaders Share

Below are five characteristics that define today’s most influential HR leaders. If these describe you, perhaps you are naturally inclined to succeed in this rewarding field. 

1. A Commitment to Lifelong Learning

Deepening your knowledge of HR best practices helps you better manage, support, and lead teams. Continuous learning is key to staying ahead in the ever-evolving HR landscape. 

Earning an online master’s in HR Management provides the foundational and strategic expertise needed to excel in HR leadership roles. Many successful HR professionals have earned their master's degree and afterwards will continue advancing their knowledge through the pursuit of professional certifications, engaging with new HR research, and applying best practices to enhance workforce development. 

Whether you are already working in HR or looking to enter the field, The University of Scranton’s Master's Degree in Human Resource Management prepares you to navigate the complexities of today’s workforce and continue evolving with the field. 

2. Strong Communication Skills

Strong communication skills are essential for human resources managers, as they serve as the foundation for building relationships, resolving conflicts, and ensuring clear and effective organizational policies. HR leaders must communicate with employees, leadership, and external stakeholders in a way that fosters trust, engagement, and collaboration. 

Whether conducting interviews, handling sensitive employee concerns, delivering training programs, or negotiating benefits, the ability to articulate ideas clearly and listen actively is crucial. Strong communication skills enable HR managers to bridge gaps between employees and leadership, driving both individual and organizational success.

3. Ethical and Values-Based Leadership

HR professionals play a crucial role in maintaining an ethical workplace culture. Demonstrating integrity in decision-making fosters trust and transparency across an organization.

HR leaders can reinforce ethical behavior in two important ways:

• Leading by example and adhering to professional HR ethics
• Advocating for company values and ensuring all employees understand their importance

Since HR professionals often oversee fair and equitable treatment initiatives, they are uniquely positioned to create a positive, values-driven work environment.

4. Strategic Thinking and Business Alignment

Modern CEOs expect human resources professionals to contribute beyond administrative functions. They look for HR leaders who align workforce strategies with broader business objectives.

HR professionals must connect human resources policies with business goals, ensuring that talent acquisition, employee engagement, and leadership development efforts support the company's long-term vision. An MS in Human Resources Management provides the analytical and strategic decision-making skills necessary to influence business growth effectively

5. Data-Driven Decision Making

Measuring the impact of human resources initiatives is crucial in today’s data-driven business environment. Metrics help HR professionals quantify the effectiveness of employee engagement programs, retention strategies, and talent development efforts.

Key HR metrics include:

• Employee turnover rates: Understanding why employees leave and how to improve retention.
• Cost-benefit analyses: Evaluating the financial impact of HR programs.
• Return on investment (ROI): Measuring the success of training initiatives and employee engagement strategies.

HR professionals with strong analytical skills can demonstrate the direct value of HR initiatives to executive leadership, which makes the case for future expansion of or investment in similar initiatives. 

The Benefits of an Online MS in Human Resources Management Program

Online learning provides a unique opportunity for HR professionals to refine leadership skills in a collaborative setting that doesn’t interfere with their career and life responsibilities. It also helps build digital communication skills, which are essential for modern HR leaders who often work in remote or hybrid environments. The virtual nature of online courses is an excellent platform for practicing these leadership skills, which are increasingly critical in today’s business landscape. 

Additionally, the interactive nature of online discussions and assignments encourages deeper engagement with course material, allowing students to reflect before responding. This deliberate approach not only enhances critical thinking and problem-solving abilities but also promotes strategic and analytical thinking. Such skills are essential for HR professionals navigating complex workplace challenges and aiming for long-term success in their careers.

Why Choose the University of Scranton MS in Human Resources?

The University of Scranton's master’s in human resources management is designed to align with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) standards, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the HR profession. The curriculum encompasses 11 courses covering key areas such as organizational behavior, leadership, and budgeting systems, providing a comprehensive foundation in HR principles. 

Offered entirely online, the program offers flexibility for working professionals seeking to advance their careers without disrupting their current commitments. Additionally, students benefit from the expertise of experienced faculty members who bring practical insights into the virtual classroom. This combination of SHRM alignment, comprehensive coursework, and accessible online delivery distinguishes the University of Scranton's program as a compelling choice for aspiring HR leaders.

Take the Next Step in Your HR Career

Whether you’re looking to advance your career or transition into human resources, the MS in human resources management from The University of Scranton offers a strategic pathway to success. Take the next step in advancing your education and career by learning more. 

Explore more about the program today!