A pandemic, rollercoaster jobs market and cost of living crisis has pushed the profession to the brink, and HR seems to be calling out for help.
If there’s a problem in the workplace, whether it’s conflict, a wellbeing concern or a simple holiday issue, the standard answer is ‘speak to HR’.
Yes, it’s what they are paid to do, but given the changing nature of the HR role in the last five years, it’s not hard to see how those practising HR are more stressed than ever.
And it’s showing. According to HR tech provider Sage, 62% of HR professionals are considering leaving the profession.
Where HR careers are heading next is explored in our cover story, and despite still aiding workplaces through consultancy and non-executive roles, priceless practitioner experience and skills may be floating away.
The root of the issue is of course complex.
It could be partially down to many HR professionals not having the backing of a union or feeling supported when things go wrong. Or perhaps just one scandal too many in the, extremely welcomed, age of whistleblowing and social media exposure.
Wherever the issue lies, the data cannot be ignored.
In the 12 months to June 2022, HR globally had the highest turnover rate of any profession, according to LinkedIn.
It seems somewhat of an irony that HR’s focus on recruitment and retention across its workforce may have led to many within its team silently exiting stage left.
We may not be in a HR crisis yet, but if professionals aren’t provided with the support they need, we certainly will be soon.
Jo Gallacher is editor of HR magazine
