What Does Good HR Support Look Like for Women in Business?
As a woman running your own business, you juggle more than most people realise. You’re not just managing clients, finances, and strategy, you’re also navigating the realities of leading a team and making sure you stay on the right side of employment law.
Good HR support isn’t just about “staying out of trouble.” Done well, it’s a growth tool – helping your business run smoothly, empowering your team, and freeing you to focus on the vision you set out to achieve.
However, HR support comes in different levels. Knowing which one you need can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
Level 1: Operational HR
Keeping your business safe, compliant, and organised
Think of this as your HR foundation – the essential admin and compliance work that ensures nothing slips through the cracks and you can sleep at night knowing your business is protected.
What it includes:
Employment contracts and handbooks that are legally sound
Practical, clear HR policies that protect your business and your team
Handling everyday issues like sickness, lateness, and conduct
Secure and accurate employee records
Compliance with employment law and payroll essentials
If you’ve ever worried, “Am I doing this right?” — this is where you start.
Level 2: Tactical HR
Creating a strong, capable team that supports your growth
This is where you move from firefighting to building. Tactical HR helps you put better systems in place so your team works well together, problems are tackled early, and performance improves.
What it includes:
Hiring the right people and onboarding them so they hit the ground running
Coaching managers to have tricky conversations with confidence
Consistent performance reviews and feedback
Improving communication and team culture
Rolling out new policies and ways of working (e.g., hybrid working)
Giving you the tools to lead effectively without second-guessing yourself
If you’ve been feeling like your team’s potential is untapped, this is the level to focus on.
Level 3: Strategic HR
Designing the business – and team – you want for the future
Strategic HR helps you think bigger. It’s about shaping your team around your long-term goals, so your business isn’t just surviving, but scaling with intention.
What it includes:
Workforce planning – knowing who to hire, when, and why
Spotting future leaders and helping them grow
Protecting and strengthening your company culture as you expand
Using HR data to improve retention and engagement
Managing big changes like restructures, funding rounds, or new locations
If you’re dreaming about scaling, exiting, or stepping back from the day-to-day, this is where you should be investing your energy.
Which Level Do You Need Right Now?
Still bogged down in admin or unsure if you’re compliant? → Start with Level 1
Hiring misfires or team tension eating your time? → Focus on Level 2
Planning big growth or major changes? → You’re ready for Level 3
The best HR partners can flex across all three levels — but knowing where you are now means you can get the right support without overspending or overcomplicating things.
Helping female founders like you choose (and get) the right HR support is exactly what I do. Let’s talk about where you are now… and where you want to be.