Gut feelings are often heavily linked to emotional intelligence, using skillsets such as reading emotions, identifying conflicts, defusing hostility, and mediating, all while simultaneously interpreting body language and tone, and predicting behaviours. However, the way emotional intelligence presents varies due to our distinct perspectives and our individual inner maps of the world.
As HR professionals, we navigate a delightful paradox because of this. We constantly validate our value within the organisation. Our language evolves from ‘I feel’ and ‘I think’ to ‘I know’ and ‘I can prove,’ adding substance and authority.
But in this makeover, we must ensure that we do not inadvertently compromise our intuition by freefalling into a rabbit hole of data. As professionals, we must recognise anomalies in the numbers, and understand their context. Intuition allows us to process vast amounts of information, leading to solutions that we cannot always logically validate.
People trust us because we just know, deep down, what is right, even if we cannot pinpoint the source.
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However, HR professionals do of course operate within the framework of structure, professional conduct, ethics, and employment laws. How can we ensure we do not confuse intuition with bias?
HR must integrate insights and intuition, skilfully balancing all factors. Our decision making process is intricate, demanding thoughtful consideration: a professional voice that empowers us to reach an informed outcome. Logic and intuition work in tandem.
Intuitive HR is not about abandoning evidence, experience, and practices, it is about harmonising it with our innate wisdom. We can do this by creating an intuitive culture in our organisations, creating a ripple effect of benefits.
Wellbeing
When we invest in our people to understand how their unconscious behaviours impact their present, we observe positive effect in their actions. This heightened understanding of others fosters greater tolerance for diverse viewpoints and encourages varied perspectives. Additionally, understanding how our bodies process stress, and effectively managing it, can lead to reduced absences.
Read more: Individual-level wellbeing strategies aren't working
Collective leadership
Intuitive HR emphasises reflection, active listening, and effective communication styles. This enables more collaboration, shared responsibility, and a holistic approach to decision-making, enhancing leadership skills at a group level. Intuitive HR also breeds authenticity, fostering deeper connections, trust and psychological safety, diversifying power and control.
Ability to pivot
By combining insights and intuitive practices, teams can perform more effectively, adapting to change in a more cohesive way. Agility and adaptability are key in navigating dynamic environments, enhancing decision-making processes and fostering creativity.
As HR professionals, we navigate the delicate dance between logic and instinct, ensuring that our decisions serve both the organisation and its people. So, next time you find yourself torn, remember that the magic lies in the balance.
Alice Bromwich is founder of HR consultancy Peony and Magnolia
