Q Question 1 A. Discuss the evolution of HR role from an administrative to strategic role. 1. What factors were involved in this transition? 2. Why is it important for HR to be involved in creating the organizational strategic plan? 3. What types of skills are needed by HR professionals today, and why are they important (name at least 3)?4. How are they different from the skills needed 20 or 30 years ago?

Q B. Reflect on the HR function in your current organization, or an organization where you have worked. 1. Evaluate the HR role in the organization and discuss the alignment between HR priorities and the organizational strategy (do not name the organization). 2. Did you see evidence of a strategic focus? Why or why not?

Q Question 2 A. Discuss how an organization’s diversity strategy can support the business strategy. Provide at least three specific examples, then explain why and how they support organizational success. Note: be sure to include a discussion before providing relevant examples. B. Consider the organization where you currently work, or one where you have worked in the past. 1. Evaluate the diversity program. How effective was it and why, and how did it support the strategic goals of the organization? 2. If it was not effective, explain what factors made it ineffective.

Q Question 3: Some organizations follow a lengthy, complex selection process, whereas in other organizations the process may be more streamlined. Some may view the longer and more complex selection process to be more valid. A. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a lengthier process? Consider the perspectives of both the job seekers and the organization, and the tradeoffs between efficiency and effectiveness. B. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a more streamlined process? Consider the perspectives of both the job seekers and the organization, and the tradeoffs between efficiency and effectiveness. C. As a job seeker, what process would you prefer to follow and why? D. Consider the selection process for an organization where you were ultimately hired. How would you describe the process from a candidate perspective? E. Do you believe it was effective? Why or why not?

Q Question 4: A. Why is retention such a major focus for human resource managers? B. How does focusing on retention add strategic value to the organization? C. How would you go about developing a retention program for your organization? Be detailed in you answer and discuss specific steps. D. What might be some of your biggest challenges in developing a retention program? E. What type of metrics would you need to obtain in developing a retention program, and what methods would you use to obtain this data? Discuss at least three metrics.