Why HR is Still the Most Disliked Department—and What We Can Do About It
Laurie Ruettimann
Trailblazing author, career advisor, speaker, podcaster, and leader. • Top LinkedIn Learning instructor in leadership and HR. • Still trying to fix work.
Let's be honest: HR has a bad reputation. You don't have to look far to find stories about HR professionals playing the corporate heavy, enforcing policies that feel out of touch, or ignoring serious employee concerns. We're labeled as the department of "no," as soulless executors of the company's will, and, worst of all, people who don't have employees' best interests at heart.
Why does this perception persist? HR has often prioritized the company's bottom line over employee well-being, which can create a deep mistrust. But there's a silver lining. Here are three powerful moves HR professionals can make to reshape how they're viewed and bring about a positive transformation:
Be Transparent
People fear what they don't understand, so transparency is key. Explain why certain policies exist, and don't sugarcoat the reality. When you can't make a change that employees want, be upfront. Tell the truth, even when it's uncomfortable. This honesty can build a foundation of trust and help employees see HR as allies, not adversaries.
Focus on Advocacy
Too often, HR is viewed as an enforcer instead of an advocate. It's time to change that. Advocate for policies supporting employees' needs, like flexible work, fair compensation, and mental health resources. Show that you're there to champion their success—not just protect the company's interests. This is where real change begins.
Recommended by LinkedIn
Show Up for the Hard Conversations
HR can be guilty of going quiet when things get tough. Real change requires the bravery to step into uncomfortable spaces. Be willing to address systemic issues like diversity and inclusion even when it's under pressure, call out toxic behavior, and provide real solutions such as training programs and support systems. This is where respect is earned.
Remember—Values Matter
But here's the twist: maybe being disliked isn't so bad. You're not in HR to win popularity contests. If you're grounded in your values and intentions and treat people with respect, you're doing your job. Not everyone will appreciate it, and that's okay. Being misunderstood comes with the territory, but as long as you're clear and compassionate in your approach, you'll earn something better than popularity: respect.
And in HR, respect is the currency that matters.
Diagnosing and Repairing Negative Work Cultures Using Punk Leadership
1moTransparency is crucial for positive team outcomes. It’s one of the core pillars in my leadership framework because it drives engagement when teams understand the reasoning behind decisions. It doesn’t mean everyone will agree with those decisions, but having clarity helps build resilience. When team members grasp the “why,” they can better connect the dots and see the results for themselves.
Strategic HR Professional | Talent Management & Employee Relations Expert | Driving Engagement, Compliance, and Operational Excellence
1moHR professionals often face a negative reputation, often seen as enforcers of the company’s agenda rather than advocates for employees. This perception stems from prioritizing the company’s bottom line, leading to mistrust among employees. However, there are key strategies HR can adopt to shift this view: Be Transparent: Honesty about policies and decisions, even uncomfortable truths, can build trust and help employees see HR as allies. Focus on Advocacy: Shift from enforcers to champions of employee needs, advocating for flexible work, fair compensation, and mental health resources. Show Up for Tough Conversations: Address challenging issues like diversity, inclusion, and toxicity with courage and proactive solutions to earn respect. Ultimately, while HR may not always be appreciated, staying grounded in values and treating employees with respect can build lasting trust. In HR, respect is a more valuable currency than popularity.
Head of People - HR Leader - Connector
1moRespect is the currency that matters!!! Thanks Laurie Ruettimann #PunkRockHR #HRCommunity #HR
Strategic communications and marketing executive using storytelling to shape brand perception and drive business growth | Author, Stan Lee: A Life, The Bourbon King, & The Authentic Leader | 3x IPA Book Award Winner
1moI like when HR and Communications pros team up to ensure that the whole org is "grounded in your values and intentions." Lots of power there when the C-suite is leading authentically and being a role model for what it wants to see. Both HR and Marketing/Comms have a big stake in overall success that is backed by business objectives. A true win-win!
Human Resources Manager @ Meliá Hotels International - Hotels & Resorts Meliá Durrës | CIPD
1moIn HR, respect is the currency that matters; very powerful statement