John is told he has been assigned the task of preparing written job descriptions for each job in the organization. He questions the idea that physical and mental requirements should be in writing. It sounds to John like the employer is more likely to be sued if those things are committed to paper. What would you tell John if you were his boss?

How HR professionals can help their organization manage risks. There are risks to people and risks to budget. Some risks can be shifted away from the organization through insurance policies. Others must be managed and minimized. When HR professionals ask to be included in executive-level discussions, explaining how risks have been controlled is one way to gain that inclusion. Real contributions to business goals and financial bottom line will gain attention every time.