There is no HR for HR – and I think I’m OK with that.
If you’ve spent any time on LinkedIn or in HR circles, you’ve probably seen the lament: “There’s no HR for HR.” And while I understand the sentiment, I have to push back. Yes, there is. There are countless people dedicated to supporting this profession. The real issue isn’t whether HR support exists – it’s whether we’re aware of it, embracing it, and demanding what we truly deserve.
The Hard Truth: HR Doesn’t Work the Way It Should
Despite the incredible impact HR professionals have, we are still overworked, burned out, and constantly fighting to be heard. We are pulled in multiple directions, expected to be everything to everyone, and yet, often undervalued within our organisations.
Why would we replicate this broken model when looking for support for ourselves? Why would we want a version of HR that simply maintains the status quo rather than actually transforming the way we work?
Safe Spaces Are the Baseline, Not the Goal
HR professionals absolutely need spaces that acknowledge our challenges and provide a community to share and process. But let’s be honest, just talking about our struggles isn’t enough.
We offer employees safe spaces, but has that truly shifted the workplace paradigm? Have we changed the way work works? No. And we shouldn’t settle for that kind of superficial support for ourselves either.
What HR Really Needs
Instead of seeking “HR for HR” in the traditional sense, what we need is transformation.
- Investment in HR Development – Leadership and management training shouldn’t just be for business leaders. HR professionals also need development opportunities to grow their strategic influence.
- Recognition of HR’s Value – If companies truly believe people are their greatest asset, why aren’t they investing in the people experts who create great workplaces?
- Real Support Mechanisms – Not just “tea and sympathy,” but tools, training, and resources that enable HR to drive meaningful change.
- A Shift in Mindset – We must recognise that seeking support isn’t a weakness, it’s essential for making an impact.
Are You Ready to Step Into Your Power?
If we’re serious about being the driving force behind the future of work, we need to stop just surviving and start demanding what we deserve.
If you’re feeling stuck or unsupported, support does exist. The real question is: are you willing to embrace it?
Here are some ways to start:
- Join Evolving HR, a whole app dedicated to HR professionals seeking to work differently.
- Attend the HR Big Meet, an event I run that’s all about helping HR professionals step into their full potential.
- Reach out to me or others in this space who are committed to helping HR professionals thrive.
Let’s stop accepting the bare minimum and start raising our expectations. Because we deserve more. And so does the future of HR.
