HR (Human Resources) is a funny thing.  It has the reputation of being in charge of hiring and firing, but in reality HR is just the Robin of sidekicks.  “What?” you might be saying.  “What are you talking about?”  You know – Robin.  As in Batman and Robin.

Think about it.  Robin is earnest.  Eager.  He has lots of ideas of what to do and how to handle a situation, but never just goes with it.  He always has to run them by Batman first.  Robin seems capable and has lots of skills, but always uses them at Batman’s direction.  Robin is there to help, but for situations that Batman wants to respond to.   Batman and Robin work together, but it doesn’t seem like an equal partnership – Robin is definitely Batman’s underling.  Commissioner Gordon isn’t flashing the big ‘bird’ symbol in the sky.  No it’s a bat.  For Batman.  Robin is clearly just the support team.

Interestingly in the versions where Robin is without Batman he is liked, but not necessarily respected.  (Teen Titans anyone?  Check out Netflix if this is unfamiliar.)  Robin considers himself a leader, but everyone around him only humours him.  He thinks he’s leading the team, but they just sort of do their own thing despite (in spite?) of what he’s trying to get them to do.

Robin never carries his own movie – he’s lucky if he shows up as the sidekick, and never even makes an appearance in the giant superhero ensemble vehicles!

Okay now that you have had the complete rundown on Robin (past and present) can you see how it completely applies to HR?

HR is earnest.  (Check!)  Lots of ideas, but has to get buy in and can’t just run with it.  (Check!)  Can be very skilled, but again the work HR does is at the request of company leadership.  (Check!) Takes direction from the CEO (okay so not Batman, but generally is a man – you could say ‘The Man’).  Tries to project they are providing some sort of leadership, but really everyone around them just typically does their own thing.  Is liked, but not exactly respected. (Check, check, and check!)

Oh and is usually snubbed from accolades or other forms of splashy recognition.  (Not sensing any big Hollywood productions in HR’s future…)

So Holy Understatements Batman.  Maybe it makes sense that sometimes your friendly neighbourhood HR person is a bit down, crabby, indifferent, or burnt out. Not taking your calls.  Is slow to get back to your email.  Or seems a bit wilted at times.  

And now you know why HR is the Robin of sidekicks.  Always the sidekick - never the hero.