HR Leaders Emphasize Strategic Focus to Enhance Employee Wellbeing

What's Happening?

Alison Borland, the chief people and strategy officer at Modern Health, is advocating for a more strategic approach to human resources (HR) that integrates people and business strategies. Borland, who has held roles such as chief growth officer and chief wellbeing officer at Silvertrain AI and Alight Solutions, emphasizes the importance of HR leaders having a seat at the executive table to drive innovative and strategic HR functions. She highlights the need for HR to focus on future-forward strategies that align with corporate goals, rather than just immediate company needs. Borland also discusses the role of employee listening and the importance of reducing the stigma around mental health in the workplace.

Why It's Important?

The shift towards strategic HR functions is crucial as it allows organizations to better align their people strategies with overarching business goals. This approach can lead to improved employee wellbeing, which is increasingly recognized as a key factor in organizational success. By integrating mental health support and reducing stigma, companies can foster a healthier work environment, potentially reducing burnout and increasing employee engagement. This strategic focus can also enhance collaboration across the C-suite, ensuring that HR is involved in critical business decisions that affect the workforce.

What's Next?

Organizations that prioritize strategic HR will likely continue to evolve their practices to address global uncertainties and technological transformations, such as AI integration. HR leaders will need to work closely with other executives to ensure that employee needs are considered in broader business strategies. This may involve more frequent employee surveys and leveraging diverse perspectives through resource groups to better understand and address workforce challenges.

Beyond the Headlines

The integration of strategic HR functions could lead to long-term shifts in how companies view employee wellbeing, moving from siloed approaches to more holistic, personalized support systems. This change may also influence cultural perceptions of mental health, encouraging more open discussions and support within the workplace.