Career News 24/7: The Cynical Girl: F%k It Friday: Art

Saturday, March 16, 2013

The Cynical Girl: F%k It Friday: Art

Posted: 15 Mar 2013 03:45 AM PDT

I never went into an art museum until I was in college. I think that’s true. In my mind, I visited the Art Institute of Chicago as a child and high schooler. But in reality, I think I was outside of the old building. I’m not sure I ever went inside even though some of the famous images were always in my head.

But art wasn’t a priority. Art wasn’t real. Art was silly. There was no time.

If I had children, I would force them to appreciate ugly art. Uncomfortable art. Painting. Photography. Sculpture. Old and new. I would tell them — shut up for two seconds and then have an opinion.

That’s what I have to tell myself NOW and I’m 38.

But at least I came to art. Finally. And I am thankful that I can walk into an exhibition in London and now see a line of sight to a picture I love in Chicago.

So please go take your kids to see some art, yo!

Defining HR Excellence

Posted: 14 Mar 2013 03:45 AM PDT

How do you know if you are doing a good job in HR?

HR consultants will say — you are doing a good job in HR if your company is profitable, your revenues are growing and your human capital costs are contained.
Traditional HR folks will say — you know you’re doing your job in HR if employee engagement is strong and people feel valued and respected. Turnover is low.
Employment lawyers will say — risk is contained and everyone is in compliance.

What’s the measure of success for HR? Is there a standard? Does it differ from organization to organization?

More importantly, how do you define excellence? And how do you get your constituencies (clients, executives, employees, etc.) to want more?