What is the primary function of a human resources (HR) department in a business?

The primary function of a human resources (HR) department in a business is to oversee recruitment, employee relations, training, and benefits. This encompasses a wide variety of responsibilities that are crucial to the effective management of an organization’s workforce.

HR plays a key role in attracting and hiring the right talent to meet the organization’s needs. Through recruitment, they ensure that the company brings in individuals who fit both the job requirements and the company culture. Once employees are on board, HR is responsible for handling employee relations, which includes addressing workplace issues, mediating conflicts, and maintaining a positive work environment.

Training is another critical area under HR, as employee development contributes to both individual and organizational success. Effective training programs enhance skillsets, increase productivity, and lead to improved job satisfaction. Additionally, HR manages employee benefits, ensuring that staff members are compensated fairly and have access to health care, retirement plans, and other perks that contribute to their overall well-being and job satisfaction.

This comprehensive oversight of the employee lifecycle illustrates the centrality of HR in fostering a supportive and effective work environment, making option B the correct answer.