If you think about the phrasing of the title “Human Resources”, it makes sense that they are not your friends.
Let’s look at the definition of the word resource:
resource
/rē′sôrs″, -zôrs″, rĭ-sôrs′, -zôrs′/
noun
Something that is available for use or that can be used for support or help.
“The local library is a valuable resource.”
An available supply, especially of money, that can be drawn on when needed.
Those definitions describe disposable commodities; easily replaceable. The adjective “human” simply refines what type of disposable and replaceable commodities that the department deals with.
If you want someone to be your advocate your best interests at a job, you’ll need to hire a lawyer. In the meantime, make sure you take notes, and follow everything up with an email (bcc your personal email a copy of each correspondence).
If your state allows one-party consent, you can even record conversations; be very aware that despite being legal, it will likely get you fired with prejudice if anybody finds out you’ve been recording them without their knowledge.
If you think about the phrasing of the title “Human Resources”, it makes sense that they are not your friends.
Let’s look at the definition of the word resource:
Those definitions describe disposable commodities; easily replaceable. The adjective “human” simply refines what type of disposable and replaceable commodities that the department deals with.
If you want someone to be your advocate your best interests at a job, you’ll need to hire a lawyer. In the meantime, make sure you take notes, and follow everything up with an email (bcc your personal email a copy of each correspondence).
If your state allows one-party consent, you can even record conversations; be very aware that despite being legal, it will likely get you fired with prejudice if anybody finds out you’ve been recording them without their knowledge.
It could also be interpreted as “resources for humans”, but you’re spot on
tbh I think that’s kinda the point, it’s corporate doublespeak.
You can also join a union.
You’re right. But it’s not feasible for everyone. e.g. As a North Carolina state employee, I am legally not allowed to join a union.
That’s why forward-looking and thoughtful tech companies call them “People ops,” which changes absolutely nothing about what they do.
“The local library is a valuable resource.”
I wouldn’t call the local library a disposable commodity.