Why HR is Often Disliked

HR departments often find themselves in the crosshairs of employee dissatisfaction. While there are multiple reasons for this, a few stand out: lack of transparency, the perception of HR as enforcers rather than advocates, and the challenging task of balancing company policies with employee satisfaction.

The Cognizant Case Study

A recent example that highlights these issues involves leading tech company, Cognizant. In February, news agency Reuters reported that Cognizant's HR department mandated employees in India to work from the office for three days a week. According to the memo, all India associates were “expected to be in the office an average of three days per week, or as defined by their team leader.”

The response from HR was clear: employees who failed to comply with this directive faced serious consequences. Despite repeated reminders, those who did not return to the office were warned that their non-compliance would be considered serious misconduct under company policies. As reported by LiveMint, this could lead to disciplinary actions, including termination. Of course employees did not like this.

The Challenge for HR

HR indeed has a tough task at hand. They must enforce policies that align with the company's strategic goals while also striving to maintain employee morale and satisfaction. This dual role can often make HR departments appear as adversaries rather than allies in the eyes of employees.

This situation raises an important question for all organizations: How is your company managing the return to office differently to ensure compliance while also fostering a positive work environment?

Sharing strategies and insights can be valuable as companies navigate this complex landscape. Reflect on your company's policies and consider how transparency, flexibility, and communication can play a role in shaping a more positive perception of HR within your organization.