H&M Champions Value-Based Leadership, Inclusivity, and Authenticity

Globally renowned for its trendy and affordable fashion offerings, H&M is a household name in many countries. Established in 1947 in Sweden, H&M has grown into one of the world’s largest fashion retailers, with a strong presence in over 70 countries – including Singapore, where the first store was launched in 2009.

The brand is celebrated for its ability to quickly adapt to the latest fashion trends and offer a wide range of clothing options for men, women, teenagers, and children. Since its arrival, H&M has made waves in Singapore's vibrant fashion scene, captivating customers with its stylish collections and competitive pricing. 

Beyond trendy clothing, H&M prides itself on cultivating a collaborative workforce, celebrating diversity, and inspiring inclusivity from within. From innovative work-life balance policies to leadership training initiatives, H&M is committed to ensuring that its workforce thrives. The answer to the question, “What is human resource management (HRM) at H&M?” is creating an inclusive and supportive environment where colleagues can excel and contribute to the company's success.

Comprehensive Employee Benefits and Work-Life Balance

When it comes to managing human resources, ensuring employee satisfaction remains high is vital. H&M provides colleagues with a comprehensive benefits package and generous leave policies, including birthday leave. 

The company is dedicated to promoting work-life balance and has implemented support systems for colleagues. For example, office colleagues have a hybrid work arrangement and are provided with work-only mobile devices, separating work chats from personal ones. Office colleagues can rest in the wellness room, while retail store colleagues can take much-needed breaks in well-furnished pantries. As part of the insurance package, colleagues receive a yearly stipend for mental health if they need to see a professional.

Inclusivity and Authenticity Take Center Stage

H&M stands out for its commitment to inclusivity, which is reinforced within the company’s extensive policies. With no dress code, H&M’s staff members are free to celebrate their authentic styles and personalities at work. Beyond fashion choices, they are encouraged to choose and use their preferred pronouns. By embracing diversity and authenticity, H&M encourages individuals to express themselves freely, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. Colleagues also have the chance to experience the Swedish tradition of fika, where everyone gathers to share snacks and drinks on special occasions.

On SMART Goals

Like many companies, H&M uses SMART goals so that colleagues can measure their progress and identify improvement areas. H&M believes this process fosters accountability, motivation, and continuous learning, ultimately driving personal and professional development. 

Of course, at H&M, no one is ever working toward their SMART goals alone. Colleagues have regular feedback sessions where they can identify areas of growth, discuss their career trajectory, and ultimately, be a part of the organisation’s success. Moreover, colleagues are encouraged to own their careers by setting long-term goals that navigate potential pathways for progression and attending career development programmes and skill-specific workshops for further advancement within H&M. 

To ace performance appraisals, colleagues should embody H&M’s core values, and exceptional colleagues are awarded the prestigious Erling Persson Award (EPA), which celebrates individuals who serve as role models for their peers while making significant contributions to our company's success.

Leadership and Development

At H&M, nurturing its workforce is paramount. This entails not only providing comprehensive benefits and focusing on people orientation but also embracing principles of effective HR management, like promoting colleagues from within the organisation.

Those who are keen to join H&M should know that the company offers diverse training opportunities for colleagues, including a Circle Of Trainers (COT) initiative where participants are empowered to become leaders. Open to in-store colleagues, this programme helps develop leadership and presentation skills through comprehensive training and guidance. Upon completion, participants become independent trainers, leading workshops focused on core training programs. Many colleagues who graduate from COT, as well as other general training programmes and opportunities, have progressed into management or leadership roles within the organisation.

Values for Leadership

H&M practices value-based leadership, with company leaders who are committed to empowering their teams, and prioritising communication and collaboration from within. They do not micromanage and prefer to trust the team to get the work done. These leaders typically involve team members in decision-making processes, seeking diverse perspectives while providing the necessary support for individuals to excel in their respective roles.

Be Part of H&M

At H&M, colleagues are encouraged to “Be Yourself & More.” At a company where authenticity is not just encouraged, but celebrated, every team member becomes an integral part of its dynamic and inclusive culture. 

Now is your time to shine! Embark on a journey of professional and personal growth with H&M as you make a mark in the fashion industry.