Survey: HR Expands Strategic Role Amid Post-Pandemic Changes

The fifth annual MindEdge Learning and HRCI survey, HR’s Role in the Changing Workplace, surveyed 1,044 certified HR professionals to explore evolving workplace dynamics and HR’s expanding role in business operations.

Key Findings

1. Expanding HR’s Role

88% of respondents believe HR should take a more active role in business operations.
However, 44% feel leaders still view HR as handling a “narrow function,” limiting its full integration into organizational strategy.

2. Resource Concerns

45% of respondents report inadequate HR funding and staffing over the past year.
Resource challenges are especially pronounced in the Technology sector, while Financial Services reports better support.

3. Post-Pandemic Workplace Trends

Work Models:
- 52% of organizations have returned to primarily in-person work.
- 47% operate remotely (14%) or on a hybrid model (33%), with 86% of these models deemed permanent.
Turnover Trends:
- Only 34% report higher turnover than pre-pandemic levels, down from 40% in 2023 and 67% in 2022.
Remote Work Management:
- Managing remote work remains a low priority (11%), with hybrid models thriving in sectors like Technology (78%) and Financial Services (71%).

4. Top HR Challenges

Retention (42%) and Talent Acquisition (40%) remain the top concerns.
Employee Burnout:
- Ranks third overall (36%) but is the primary concern in Technology (45%).
- Burnout is notably high in Healthcare (84%) and Education (84%) sectors.

5. Continuous Learning Interest

79% of organizations provide continuous learning opportunities, and 82% of professionals express interest in earning additional HR certificates.
Most sought-after certifications:
- HR Leadership (83%)
- Workplace Wellness (68%)
- Talent Acquisition (60%)

HR’s Evolving Role and Strategic Outlook

HR professionals are increasingly confident in their organizations’ financial health (60% confident) and see opportunities to enhance their strategic contributions. Continuous learning and expanded roles are viewed as critical to ensuring HR’s integration into broader business operations.