Finding the right HR software is essential for small businesses looking to streamline their HR processes. With a smaller team and fewer resources, small businesses need tools that are affordable, user-friendly, and scalable.
Whereas in the past HR software was typically designed for large companies, today there are a vast number of HR software tools aimed at SMEs. Here’s a look at some of the best HR software tools available to small businesses in the UK:
Breathe HR
BreatheHR is one of the most popular HR software solutions for small businesses in the UK. It is designed specifically for SMEs and offers a range of features that help manage essential HR tasks, including absence management, performance reviews, and employee records. BreatheHR is known for its user-friendly interface and cloud-based system, making it accessible for businesses on the go. Additionally, BreatheHR provides an affordable pricing structure, making it ideal for small teams.
Key features:
- Holiday and absence management
- Employee records
- Performance and development tracking
- Custom reporting
- Secure document storage
Why it’s great for small businesses: BreatheHR provides an intuitive platform tailored to the needs of small businesses. It’s easy to use, even for companies without a dedicated HR team.
Bright HR
BrightHR is a UK-based HR software that is designed to help small businesses handle HR tasks efficiently. With a focus on compliance and employee management, BrightHR includes features for tracking holidays, managing absences, and documenting key employee information. BrightHR also offers a mobile app that allows remote workers to clock in and out from wherever they are.
Key features:
- Absence management
- Staff scheduling and rota planning
- Secure document storage
- Reporting and analytics
- helpful mobile app
BrightHR is known for its focus on compliance, particularly with UK employment law. For businesses that need HR software tailored to the UK market, BrightHR provides valuable features and support.
Hireful
Hireful is a valuable recruitment and applicant tracking platform for small businesses, designed to streamline the hiring process and make it more efficient. One of the key benefits is its ease of use, with an intuitive interface that simplifies tasks like job posting, candidate tracking, and communication. Small businesses, can benefit from Hireful’s ability to post jobs on multiple platforms with a single click, reducing the time spent on manual processes. Additionally, its built-in applicant tracking system (ATS) ensures that businesses can manage their recruitment efforts from one central location, helping to keep track of candidates and avoid missed opportunities.
Hireful is also highly customisable, allowing businesses to tailor recruitment workflows to their specific needs. Whether it’s automating candidate communications or customising interview stages, the platform adapts to the unique requirements of each company.
Benefits of Hireful for small businesses in the UK:
- User-friendly interface: Simplifies the recruitment process for small businesses.
- Job posting automation: Post on multiple job boards with a single click, saving time and effort.
- Applicant tracking system (ATS): Manage and track candidates from one platform, ensuring no missed opportunities.
- Customisable workflows: Tailor recruitment stages and communication to fit business needs.
PeopleHR
PeopleHR offers a range of features designed to streamline HR processes, making it easier for small business owners to manage tasks such as employee records, holiday tracking, and performance management. The software is cloud-based, meaning it’s accessible from anywhere, allowing for flexibility and real-time updates. PeopleHR also automates many HR tasks, such as payroll integration and employee self-service, reducing the administrative burden on small teams and allowing them to focus on more strategic aspects of the business.
In addition to its core HR functionality, PeopleHR provides valuable analytics and reporting tools, which can be crucial for small businesses looking to make data-driven decisions. The platform generates reports on key HR metrics, such as absenteeism, employee turnover, and performance trends, allowing businesses to identify issues early and take corrective action. Its scalability means that as small businesses grow, they can continue using PeopleHR without having to switch to a more complex system, making it an excellent long-term solution for evolving HR needs.
Benefits of PeopleHR for small businesses in the UK:
- Cloud-based platform: Provides flexibility and accessibility, allowing HR tasks to be managed from anywhere.
- Automation of HR tasks: Reduces the administrative burden through automation of payroll, leave management, and employee self-service.
- Analytics and reporting: Offers insightful reports on key HR metrics, helping small businesses make informed decisions.
- Scalability: Grows with your business, allowing you to continue using the software as your HR needs expand.
- User-friendly interface: Designed to be intuitive, making it ideal for small businesses without a dedicated HR department.
Conclusion
With so many fantastic HR software tools available for SMEs today, choosing between them can be a tough process. Whilst software reviews can help you get a better idea of the software’s features, we highly recommend using free trials (where possible) to get a feel for the tools and see if they are right for your business before committing to the cost.
Ultimately, the best HR software for your business will depend on your specific requirements, including your budget, the size of your team, and the features that matter most to your operations.
For more information about the various different HR software tools for SMEs and how they could help your business, feel free to get in touch.
