Putting the human back into human resources | Mary Schaefer | TEDxWilmington

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[HerpADerp]

Truly wonderful talk. I'm currently just over half way through my undergrad degree studying HR/IR and organisational development, and it's hearing people speak with this sort of conviction about treating employees as people as opposed to resources that really motivates me and makes me excited to go out into the professional sphere and make a difference. Thank you Mary!

[LaurieKingMcAndish]

This is an inspiring reminder to "see and appreciate" our colleagues, and even the strangers we come into contact with every day.

[isatousarr]

Human Resources should indeed live up to its name—a department that prioritizes fairness, compassion, and genuine concern for the well-being of employees. It’s meant to be a cornerstone of equity and trust, not a bureaucratic system focused solely on policies and paperwork.

HR must be a space where employees feel heard, valued, and supported, ensuring that decisions whether about hiring, promotions, or conflict resolution are based on merit, transparency, and empathy. When HR adopts a just and fair approach, it fosters a culture of mutual respect and accountability, which ultimately leads to a more motivated and loyal workforce.

The essence of HR lies in understanding that behind every role is a person with aspirations, challenges, and contributions that deserve recognition. It’s time to redefine HR as the heart of the organization, advocating for people while aligning with organizational goals.

What changes do you think HR departments need to prioritize to truly "put the human back in human resources"?

[shinutokoro]

We need more managers that understand this! She is what all leaders to aspire to...

[travis]

Mary, that was so spot on. I am a recent graduate interviewing for my first HR Generalist position on Monday. And, putting the human back into Human Resources is what I really want to do. Thanks for posting and sharing your thoughts. Much appreciated.

[therawhrexperience]

This is an incredible talk. Thank you for shifting our gaze back to what HR is all about - being of service to the HUMANS who work in our workplaces.

[FreshhrinsightsAu]

As an HR Professional working with SME's on the beautiful Gold Coast of Australia I FULLY identify with what you are saying. I always say as my lead into my services that I am bringing the "human" back into Human Resource Management. I believe in treating people the way that I want to be treated. Great talk - thank you

[ljavydiaz]

Thank you Mary for not only preaching this good news but also living it! I can honestly say from personal experience that I have felt valued, and am making a "meaningful contribution" in my workplace and in my personal relationships. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and heart with us!

[jackieleelopez]

Ms. Mary Schaefer I learned a lot on this. I do appreciate many people to make them feel better like what I would want to feel on my end too. Because I know we need each other and to be appreciated like what you said. Why, because we all really work hard. We do our part on our work aside from that we are all different and we are all unique and have different talents. We work uniquely. Love this speech. Jackie Lee Lopez here from the Philippines. I will make an impact and do what I can do to make other feel good.

[tafinyakudziwanza]

Graduating my Human Resources Degree and Labour Relations this year.What I love the most is despite the dynamics between American and African HR it is still relatable and relevant.Thank you so much

[mariameave]

Thank you Miss Schaefer for an excellent TED Talk. As a San Diego State University student, putting the human back into human resources is extremely important to me. I had a bad experience with an unskillful manager once . People were not being appreciated or treated with respect, people were just unhappy and I was one of them. For this reason I decided to become a human resources manager to help and empower people in the workforce and treat them humanly instead of humanely like you mention. Amazing Talk. Thank you so much.

[tranquilitypeace]

Fantastic message Mary.  I got disillusioned with the way that companies talked about engagement, but did not seem to be doing anything about it.  So I opened up my own HR consultancy business a few months ago with a mission to encourage business owners to rethink their engagement strategy and understand that it affects their bottom line, so their people need to feel valued and appreciated. I am still in the early stages but so happy to know that I am not the only HR professional with this point of view.

[operachild]

One of my favorite humans!
Thank you, Mary.

[lauramikolaitis]

Mary, this is an excellent talk and your passion for putting the human back into HR shines through. It is a neglected area it seems these days, along with kindness and respect. Thank you for the reminders and keep on doing what you are doing. Truly inspiring.

[jackieleelopez]

This is really helpful and it is true. Love the way she talk on how to appreciate all people that are willing to grow and to believe in them. And to be treated that we are all different and capable to do more.

[azigi]

Creating an engage workforce is one of underpinning fact to reducing attrition at workplace. Thanks Mary for the greater insight to engagement.

[heidisfitlife]

Amazing speech! I am studying I/O Psychology and firmly believe that valuing employees will definitely have a positive impact on business. I've also met many HR professionals who do not seem to have the human touch with employees. I love the passion that shows in your work!

[brycedozois]

Not sure why but I genuinely began tearing up listening to this, great talk.

[BlueParadoxical]

A very moving speech. The lack of conscientiousness that plagues many businesses is not only a problem in the workforce, but it is also an issue in our society as a whole. Each person has his or her boundaries, and people sometimes want to be left alone. However, I know how good it has felt when someone has made me feel valued. A person comes to work and does his or her job... but if that's all that matters, the person is just another gear in the machine. People are living, breathing, and feeling creatures who want to be valued. Thank you for bringing this issue to the forefront.

[Ezrock]

It’s soo damn true I’m only in high school I’ve worked 3 jobs and in my last job my manager sucked and I would get over worked and got fired for missing a day. Another manager from my first job was a good manager was a good manager very understanding and considerate, now I’m focusing on studying on Human Resources so most people don’t feel so undermined to meet their needs.