What's Happening?
A recent survey has revealed that 44% of HR professionals continue working even when they should rest, leading to higher burnout rates compared to other industries. The survey, commissioned by Bainland Lodge Retreats, involved 2,000 UK adults, including 60 HR professionals. Findings indicate that remote and hybrid work models have contributed to increased burnout, with 46% of respondents reporting escalated burnout levels since the COVID-19 pandemic. The HR Mental Wellbeing Report, released by Towergate Employee Benefits and Ultimate Resilience, highlights low wellbeing levels in 67% of HR professionals, with 26% not feeling rested in the past two weeks. Clinical psychologist Matt Slavin notes the dual pressure HR professionals face, balancing emotional support and business targets.
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Why It's Important?
The findings underscore the critical need for organizations to address the wellbeing of HR professionals, who are often tasked with managing sensitive issues and conflicts within companies. The high burnout rates could impact organizational efficiency and employee morale, as HR professionals play a vital role in maintaining workplace harmony. Business psychologist Matt Smeed emphasizes the importance of valuing HR as a strategic function, suggesting that proper resourcing and recognition could mitigate burnout. The report calls for a shift in how HR is perceived and treated within organizations, highlighting the potential benefits of improved HR support on overall business performance.
What's Next?
Organizations are encouraged to take actionable steps to support HR professionals, such as providing them with a seat at the decision-making table and celebrating their achievements. There is a call for managers to adopt a leadership approach that treats employees as humans rather than resources, which could alleviate the burden on HR teams. The report suggests implementing clear guidelines on what issues should be escalated to HR, allowing more human challenges to be resolved within teams. These changes could lead to a reduction in burnout rates and improve the overall mental wellbeing of HR professionals.
Beyond the Headlines
The report highlights the need for HR professionals to be trained in human skills that protect their wellbeing, such as empathy with healthy boundaries and self-regulation under pressure. This training could help HR professionals manage their emotional load more effectively, reducing the risk of burnout. The findings also suggest a cultural shift in organizations, where HR is seen as a strategic partner rather than a tick-box exercise. This shift could lead to long-term improvements in employee wellbeing and organizational success.
