What’s the Point? When Employer Decisions Hurt More Than They Help

A client recently shared a story with me. Before I began working with them, they had banned a former employee from entering their facilities.

This person wasn’t disruptive. They weren’t a flight risk. They hadn’t shown any disrespect. They were simply human and they had treated the company with courtesy.

So I asked what was the point of banning them? … My client couldn't give me a straight up answer.

It’s a question that goes beyond policy. Because when decisions like this are made, they say something bigger about the company: what kind of culture do we want to be known for?

Every choice an organization makes sends a message to employees, clients, and the wider community. In this case, the message wasn’t aligned with respect, fairness, or trust, and that can quietly chip away at your employer brand.

This is where my role as a fractional HR partner comes in. I work with business owners to think through these decisions before they happen. We consider not only compliance and risk, but also reputation and culture. Because reactive decisions often create more problems than they solve.

The takeaway?
Employer brand isn’t just about marketing or recruitment campaigns. It’s built (or eroded) by the everyday choices leaders make.

And sometimes the best decision is to pause and ask ourselves:

• Why are we doing this?

• What is our intention?

• What’s the point?

If you’re a leader, take a moment to ask yourself these questions before making decisions that affect your people. The answers may shape not just your policies, but your reputation. I’d love to hear how it goes; of course, I’m always here if you need help to think things through!