Scaling Nonprofits: Mastering HR Challenges

Using the Whole Whale - A Nonprofit Podcast

Host George engages with Dr. Tiffany Slater, founder and CEO of HR TailorMade, to delve into the complexities of human resources within nonprofit organizations. As nonprofits grow, they often encounter HR challenges that can impede their mission-driven work. Dr. Slater's company serves as a fractional HR department, providing tailored solutions to nonprofits across the United States.

Key Insights:

• Growth and HR Challenges: As organizations expand, they face critical HR inflection points, often every three to five employees. Each new hire brings unique personalities and needs, complicating internal dynamics. Dr. Slater emphasizes the importance of intentional onboarding to integrate new team members effectively and ensure they understand their roles and the organizational culture.
• Onboarding and Retention: Effective onboarding is crucial for employee retention. Dr. Slater advises creating a structured onboarding plan, including a 30, 60, 90-day framework, to equip new hires with the necessary tools and knowledge. This process not only helps employees succeed but also fosters long-term commitment to the organization.
• Managing Difficult Conversations: One of the toughest HR challenges is addressing performance issues when employees do not recognize their shortcomings. Dr. Slater stresses the importance of clear communication and documentation to manage expectations and guide performance improvements.
• Litigious Challenges: The conversation touches on the inevitability of lawsuits, emphasizing the need for meticulous documentation of HR processes and interactions to protect the organization legally.
• Performance Documentation: Regular performance reviews and documentation are essential. Providing feedback helps employees grow and aligns their efforts with organizational goals. It also serves as a critical tool in managing underperformance and potential terminations.