Why Your SME’s HR Is Like Herding Cats — And How to Stop the Chaos

HR FOR START-UPS

5/27/20251 min read

If you have ever tried to herd cats, you know it’s a bit like managing people in a small business. Everyone’s got their own mind, opinions, and sometimes, a tendency to disappear right when you need them most.

Running HR in an SME can feel exactly like that — chaotic, unpredictable, and often exhausting.

Take Babu, who runs a small logistics company in Machakos. He spent more time chasing missing timesheets and explaining leave policies than growing his business. Sound familiar?

At Everybit Business, we specialize in turning that chaos into order — and maybe even a little peace of mind.

The HR Challenge: Cats and Humans, Surprisingly Similar… Who would have guessed it?

Like cats, employees want:

  • Clear communication (but don’t always hear it)

  • Fair treatment (even if they don’t always show it)

  • Boundaries (yes, even if they test them daily)

Without solid HR processes, things spiral fast: missed deadlines, “it was so and so’s responsibility“ and “where’s my contract?” emails become everyday drama.

How to Stop Herding Cats (and Start Leading People)

Here’s the secret: structure + support. Imagine Babu’s relief when Everybit helped him set up clear policies, streamlined contracting and role descriptions, and trained his managers on conflict resolution.

No more chasing missing time sheets — just a well-oiled machine.

Simple Tips to Herd Your HR Cats

  1. Written Contracts Are Your Friend
    No more “we agreed verbally” chaos.

  2. Disciplinary Procedures Are Not Mean, They’re Necessary
    Clear steps keep things fair — and sane.

  3. Statutory Compliance Is Non-Negotiable
    Avoid surprise fines and audits.

  4. Employee Handbooks Aren’t Just Paperweight
    They’re your go-to guide for expectations.

Ready to Tame Your HR Herd?

If your HR feels like herding cats, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Reach out to Everybit Business and let us help you create HR systems that work for you, not against you.