Are These Really My Duties as an MBA HR Trainee? Seeking Clarity on My Role and Shift Work Expectations

Hello, sir. I joined as a management trainee in a company and signed an agreement for 5 years. However, I have a doubt about my initial duties. The organization told me that I have to observe the housekeeping movement and security alert. Additionally, I have to monitor employee movement in the company to ensure they arrive at the office on time. Are these my duties as an MBA HR personnel? Also, if the company requires employees to work in shifts, is it necessary for HR personnel to work in shifts as well?

Hi Jagadeesh,

I am an HR student who worked for a company under internship. As per me, your work is not that of HR professionals. Let me elaborate.

First of all, to observe housekeeping movement and security, it is the duty of the housekeeping supervisor and security officer who need an initial qualification of 10th or PUC. Second, there are no shifts for HR professionals. Thirdly, employee movement is not your duty; it is the duty of supervisors. Sometimes you can go for an audit of employee grooming, absence, their dressing, uniform (this will be like you are keeping a check on it, a suspense visit to the floor).

As an HR, the basic duties you are supposed to do are:
- Filing the employment duties
- Recruiting
- Helping your senior in his/her work (all management work)
- Appointment letter
- HRIS update
- ESI-PF update
- Handling grievances
- Many more, etc.

Hope this helped you. Sad to know that you already signed the contract letter.

It is advisable to seek advice from seniors and inquire about the employee career path for personal growth opportunities. Making commitments with a company can be a significant decision.

Thank you.

Regards,

Dear Jagdeesh,

Take things in a positive way. Since you joined as a Management Trainee, consider all assignments as an opportunity to learn. Housekeeping, security, and time office activities are the basic things, and of course, these are part of HR. You are getting an opportunity to acquire practical exposure, which will help you at a later stage when you become a manager. Don't miss it. Furthermore, if the company's work requirement involves shift work, don't hesitate to comply with it. After all, you were hired to deliver according to the organization's requirements - do it sincerely, though I could not digest a 5-year service agreement.

All the best,
Gopal

This is more of an admin job. Please clarify with your superior immediately.

Regards,
Sumant

Dear Jagdeesh,

As KSGopal said, you should keep doing these jobs considering them a part of your training for upcoming posts, i.e., managerial level post. Doing an MBA doesn't make you qualified for a white-collar job immediately; you must learn and earn experience.

However, you should come to an understanding with your management as to "how long shall you do these jobs?"

Best Regards,
Waseem

Hi Jagadeesh,

To become the best HR, first of all, we need to understand how other departments function within your organization. By identifying any gaps in these areas, only then can you bridge them and fulfill the HR requirements, which are mostly beneficial for recruitment, identifying training needs, and so on, for better contributions. As an HR professional, it is crucial to continuously learn and then impart that knowledge through teaching and training. Therefore, strive to make the most of the opportunities available.

I hope this helps!

Best regards, [Your Name]