In an interview with Manager HR magazine, Alistair Firmin (President and CEO) and Ginny Sorenson (Executive Consultant) of Bluestone Process Dynamics shed light on the role of their HR assessment methodology in the post-pandemic business world. We were also joined by Mark Guthrie, a retired CHRO with more than 40 years of experience successfully driving HR strategy, influential leadership, and positive employee relations programs across organizations around the globe.
What are some of the pain points or challenges that your clients are facing today?
Alistair Firmin: One of the biggest challenges we see today revolves around employee retention. The payoff of focusing on employee retention—in terms of increased performance, productivity, employee morale, and quality of work, plus a reduction in both turn over and employee-related problems—is well worth the time and financial investment. However this is a task easier said than done.
Ginny Sorenson: Speaking as a former CHRO myself, the role of HR professionals has evolved significantly in recent times. Focus has been on the frontlines when it comes to dealing with the pandemic. However, the main challenge organizations faced was staying in touch with employees and getting a good understanding of what their view of work is today. So, as the work process rebounds and even shifts, our HR assessment methodology assists our clients in providing a real-time way to engage and better understand their employees’ concerns- whether in a remote or on-site setup. We conduct assessments with our clients at regular intervals throughout the year. This way, they get a better and quicker sense of what’s going on in the organization over time.
Mark Guthrie: In my 30 some odd years of working for GE and then other companies for a dozen or so years, what I always found was that words got in the way. Right now, more than ever, leaders need to understand what’s really going on with their employees and how they perceive the work environment. Once they have this, leaders need to factor that into company strategy going forward. The Bluestone HR assessment methodology allows you to do that in a clear, concise, and very efficient way to make a difference.
Could you elaborate on your offerings and the value it delivers?
Ginny Sorenson: Most companies conduct annual employee engagement surveys because it provides a snapshot of the company. However, this has the disadvantage of being a lengthy and time consuming process. As a result, by the time the entire assessment is completed, the company’s current scenario may have changed. The Bluestone HR assessment methodology is more akin to a regular pulse check. Clients who partner with us can expect results in no time.
Clients who partner with Bluestone can expect results
Alistair Firmin: Bluestone Process Dynamics has extensive experience at all levels, from working with the management team to frontline employees. When Bluestone engages, we always begin with an assessment that helps us gain insights into what client are trying to accomplish. Once we have a clear understanding of their goals, we work collaboratively with leadership to deliver the best solution. This typically begins with group specific discussions for employees and leaders. Based on the feedback received, we conduct a second round of assessment where participants are asked to provide their opinion on the organization. This helps our experts gain a deeper understanding of their business, challenges, and goals. On analyzing it, we develop purpose-built solutions geared towards helping them achieve those goals.
Mark Guthrie: Bluestone has done an outstanding job of understanding the methodology and developing applications that can be customized to meet the needs of various clients. Regardless of whether it’s a startup or an enterprise looking to either hire new employees or improve employee satisfaction, Bluestone’s HR assessment offering is the best starting point for any organization looking to improve their work environment.
What does the future hold for Bluestone Process Dynamics?
Alistair Firmin: Currently we’re concentrating on assisting our clients to reduce employee turnover and improve client organizational agility. As we listen to our clients and focus on what they tell us they need next, we are expanding our network of consultants across the US and looking to build a footprint in Europe and Asia to better support the global needs of our clients.
Ginny Sorenson: Bluestone aims to make an impact by aspiring to make a difference every day. Moreover, we only work with clients who are committed to making a difference. As we continue to move forward in the HR space, we will continue to develop and use tried and true methodologies that are appropriate for our clients.
