Why Is HR So Lonely?
Julie Turney, (HRforHR)
I help burned out and frustrated HR Professionals to take control of their careers. #YourHRCoach?? Author?? HR Disrupter? TEDx + Public Speaker?? Host of the HR Sound Off Podcast Show??
Hey Community,
As someone who has spent years in the field of Human Resources, I've come to realize that while the job can be incredibly rewarding, it can also be remarkably isolating. HR professionals often find themselves in a unique predicament, balancing the responsibility of maintaining confidentiality and the challenge of limited social interaction with other employees.
The seemingly simple act of joining coworkers for a casual happy hour can become a complex decision for HR professionals. The knowledge we possess about our colleagues can make us hesitant to engage in social gatherings with the same ease as others. We're privy to information others might not be aware of, making it a delicate balancing act.
I vividly remember one holiday season when I was entrusted with ensuring employees' safety at our office party. While laughter and merriment filled the air, I found myself on the outside of it all. Amidst the festivity, I was left feeling strangely alone.
Additionally, HR professionals must tread carefully when forming friendships at work. The fear of appearing to show preferential treatment or bias is always lurking. HR often plays a pivotal role in decisions regarding promotions, raises, or terminations, which can inadvertently lead to others viewing us as management representatives rather than advocates for employees.
The fear of appearing to show preferential treatment or bias is always lurking.
This perceived distance can result in exclusion from the informal "water cooler chats" that serve as the foundation for deeper relationships in the workplace. Sometimes, we might even be openly disliked or held in disdain. Most people's encounters with HR are usually related to difficult decisions, such as terminations, which can cast a shadow on our reputation. We often carry the burden of guilt, even though we play a minor role in these life-altering decisions.
The Numbers Are in
In a recent LinkedIn poll, I discovered that HR professionals struggle with loneliness. Of the 900+ HR professionals who took the poll, 58% said they feel lonely in their HR career. Most of the demographic who participated in this poll held the job titles of HRM, HRBP, HRD, HR generalist, and specialist. I was not surprised at all by these numbers. This is definite confirmation that HR is not ok, and something needs to be done about it.
Tackling loneliness in HR
If you're an HR professional facing these challenges, you're not alone. There are ways to navigate the intricate web of relationships within HR and beyond.
1. Join an HR community
In today's remote work landscape, connecting with other HR professionals in online communities can provide the support and camaraderie you need. These communities offer valuable industry insights, content, and networking opportunities. Here is a list of some of my favourite HR communities:
领英推荐
The Caribbean Society for HR Professionals (CSHRP)
2. Explore local groups and meet-ups
If you're looking for in-person interactions, you might be surprised by the number of local HR groups in your area. Organizations like the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) have local chapters that host networking events. You can also explore DisruptHR, which hosts events globally.
3. Find a coach or mentor
Sometimes, one-on-one support is what you need. A mentor or coach can provide advice, resources, and a listening ear. They can also introduce you to other HR professionals facing similar challenges. These connections might eventually lead to genuine, lasting friendships.
From loneliness to connectedness
While loneliness can be an unwelcome companion in HR, it doesn't have to be a constant companion. You can transform isolation into a sense of connectedness by seeking out online communities, local meet-ups, or personalized mentorship. Not only will this positively impact your mental well-being, but it will also help you navigate the unique challenges of your role in HR.
"From Isolation to Connection: Let's Transform Your HR Journey Together!"
If you're an HR professional who has felt the weight of isolation, it's time to take action. Together, we can turn the challenge of loneliness into an opportunity for connection, growth, and personal development. Click on this link to schedule your free coaching preview call with me.
With heart,
Julie Turney #yourhrcoach ??
HR Professional | Expert Advisor | Strategic Business Partner
1 年Julie Turney, (HRforHR) I think that HR loneliness is an intentional construct. Companies/organizations view HR as the "policy police" while employees view HR as the place to go to get "hired and fired." While it is true that HR cannot always hang out at the proverbial water cooler or go to the new employee kick back because of the work we do, we have a unique opportunity to humanize the profession by engaging with leaders, managers, employees, vendors, stakeholders, etc. in ways that are professional, authentic, and warm, which enables us to serve as the strategic partners necessary to drive organizational effectiveness, efficiency, and change.
Human Resources Professional
1 年I totally agree ?? percent with this article. I’ve been called antisocial because I don’t go walk around the office gossiping with staff members. If you aren’t a HR professional I cannot converse with you if something is bothering about an employee or a manager. I have to be very careful on building relationships at work. Plus I don’t trust people at work period. I love my profession but people that aren’t HR professionals don’t get the magnitude of information we deal with on a daily basis. I know I get drained dealing with different personalities and situations.
Arranger | Futuristic | Ideation | Strategic | Individualization
1 年I just spoke as an alumni and my advice to the newly graduating students was to find an “HR Bestie” so that you have someone to connect with. It don’t need to be at work but another person in HR is so helpful in feeling connected.
Thank you Julie Turney, (HRforHR) for this article. I love that you reference connecting within the HR field - I have found that has been such a great way to help support the harder HR waves. The reality is that so many of our colleagues deal with similar situations, so the empathy can truly be present in the HR network - thank you for that good reminder!