Every ambitious HR professional dreams of having a voice at the executive table. We want to sit with the board, co–decide on strategy, organizational culture and business goals. Yet we often end up as organizers of corporate events or as those who hear that “HR doesn’t count because it doesn’t deliver results.” We may complain that boards don’t understand the HR role and aren’t enlightened enough, but honestly – does it change anything?
Do we really do everything to ensure HR is a true business partner, not just a nice add-on? I describe 10 critical attitudes that determine whether you, as an HR professional, take the lead role or remain in the back row. It’s not additional skills or courses that set the outstanding apart from the average, but mindset. It is mindset that decides whether you have the courage to say “no,” stand your and earn the business respect.
Warning: after reading this book, you’ll no longer have convenient excuses, but I guarantee that once you change your approach, you’ll be surprised how quickly others’ attitudes toward you shift.
The book is available in Polish and English, and besides the traditional edition you can also buy it as an e–book or audiobook.
The year 2020 proved that in results-driven businesses, the most important asset today is PEOPLE. This paradox requires owners and managers to refresh their social sensitivity, while demanding that those in the "HR function" develop a deeper grasp of business strategy. Paraphrasing Alvin Toffler: what must we learn, unlearn, and re-design in this critical area? The roadmap is here. You hold it in your hands. Thank you, Iwona, for your book; on behalf of myself and the Adepts of the Academy of Leadership Psychology, for whom it will become mandatory reading.
Jacek Santorski
Co-author of "I. Refleksje o przywództwie jutra"
Iwona Wencel, a competent and accomplished practitioner, has written what I consider a groundbreaking book about HR and how to be a professional HR expert. You will find the most important insights here—free of jargon and self-promotion—presented accessibly, generously, and with the attention, care, and responsibility vital for the future of Polish HR. Every sentence reflects the author's experience; she truly knows her subject, having excelled as an HR Manager for years in an exceptional way. This book will help mold HR professionals who can successfully balance caring for people with building business value, who are goal-oriented, understand strategy, and co-manage companies through a valuable dialogue with all business managers. To such HR professionals, business today says: "We need you; we want more." I invite you to read and implement its wisdom.
Dariusz Duma
Philosopher, entrepreneur, business advisor
Human capital management is fundamental to every company. Especially now, in the era of COVID-19, HR can play an exceptional role, as systemic solutions like strategy, structures, or procedures are less effective under conditions of uncertainty. Far more depends on organizational culture and the quality of leadership. Therefore, if you have anything to do with human resource management, you must read this book. It is excellent. The author brilliantly organizes the different roles and competencies of HR and provides concrete examples on how to master them.
Paweł Motyl
Author of the bestsellers "Labirynt. Sztuka podejmowania decyzji" and "Świat Schrödingera. Kronika nieprzewidywalnej przyszłości"
In this era of total business transformation, the old way of managing people based on outdated roles has become an anachronism. Managers and leaders now need HR partners who understand the business, participate in strategic planning, support sales development, and build a cohesive company culture. But how do you achieve this? Start with #BoldHR, meaning: start with yourself! This book guides you through vivid case studies, answers many valuable questions, offers interesting ideas for personal development, and most importantly—shows the essential attitudes of the HR Business Partner. It's excellent inspiration for every HR professional, regardless of experience, and a source of reflection for every manager in the company. This reading prompted my own personal reflection on the HR partner's role, which I view as an indispensable part of business and company growth strategy. Anyone aiming to build a stable company with a strong culture and loyal employees will find a new perspective within it. No matter which side you’re on, #BoldHR is a perfect inspiration and a tool for personal growth.
Aneta Podyma
Chief Executive Officer Unum Życie TUiR SA
Jack Welch, the legendary CEO of General Electric placed the role of HR in the organization on par with Finance and Sales. This book explains exactly why Great Jack was right. With its dynamic language, real-world corporate examples, and insightful observations—all infused with a belief in the power of values and the innate good in people—it's an excellent manual not just for HR Business Partners, but for every modern manager.
Jarosław Mikos
CEO Comarch
I’d be delighted if you share your thoughts; it could be a review, a personal story, a reflection or an experience that occurred during reading. Every voice matters to me and I receive it with gratitude.
Knowledge that delivers results – every Monday in your inbox.
Each week I prepare concise reflections based on my experience and the latest HR insights. Power Notes are short, practical inspirations written personally by me.
Start the week well – sign up and develop strategic HR with me.
Subscribers gain access to the latest and archived Power Notes on the HR Power Mentor platform – tools that help you act more effectively, boldly and with real business impact.