Case Study: Outsourced HR Consulting
The Challenge
A small engineering company, led by its Managing Director (MD), approached us to address significant employee retention challenges. With a workforce of 15 employees spread across various locations in Ireland, the company lacked a designated HR professional. The MD and Engineering Manager handled HR matters as they arose, struggling to find and retain the right talent. New hires often left within weeks or months, causing stress, wasting time, and necessitating repeated recruitment efforts. This turnover negatively impacted production and delayed projects.
Additionally, the company had grown rapidly without establishing formal HR procedures. Employment contracts were inconsistent, with some being non-compliant with legal standards, and others non-existent. Performance issues with a few employees further compounded the challenges.
The Process
We conducted a thorough review of the company's hiring process and quickly identified critical areas needing improvement. Legal compliance and best HR practices were implemented immediately to mitigate exposure to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC), protect the company's reputation, and strengthen its brand. By refining job postings, interview questions, and interviewing techniques, we successfully sourced and hired higher-calibre employees.
Our focus extended to the onboarding and probationary periods, ensuring new hires received necessary support to address any emerging issues promptly. We also reviewed the full spectrum of the HR function, including administrative tasks, contracts, employee handbooks, policies, and procedures—most of which were previously non-existent.
Our approach was collaborative, hands-on, and included practical simulations to ensure comprehensive understanding and application.
The Outcome
By developing legally compliant and best practice HR processes, we significantly reduced risks related to WRC exposure, improved retention, enhanced the company’s reputation, strengthened its employer brand, and boosted employee engagement.
We provided the client with all necessary documents and templates for future use, creating a sustainable HR framework. Performance issues were addressed with targeted plans and outcomes, allowing the client to manage other business aspects with confidence and reduced HR-related concerns.
This case study highlights the substantial impact of outsourcing the HR function to accredited HR experts like us. With the right guidance and support, organisations can navigate HR challenges more smoothly and achieve their objectives. If your organisation needs HR assistance, contact us today to discover how we can support your journey.
