To celebrate and recognise this year’s International HR Day, Petaurum HR are celebrating the remarkable contributions HR professionals make to organisations worldwide. 

As a company, we continue to further explore important topics, including this year’s theme around diversity, “Shaping the New Future”. 

“As this theme implies, diversity-focused HR policies have the potential to build a sustainable future of work that draws on the deepest talent pool”

And, today, we want to shed light on an often overlooked aspect: How HR can support HR. 

As the saying goes, “The shoemaker’s children have no shoes,” but it’s crucial for HR professionals to prioritise their own wellbeing and seek support when needed. 

Let’s dive into this important perspective together.

Supporting HR Professionals

While HR professionals dedicate themselves to supporting organisations, it’s essential to remember that they too need assistance and guidance.  

Here are five ways HR professionals can get the support they need:

1. Have a mentor – Having someone to look up to and learn from is invaluable for any professional — an experienced and trusted advisor who can support and guide you through times of complex change and stress.

2. Stay connected – Participating in community events like conferences or volunteer opportunities is great for staying up-to-date on the latest industry news and career advice.

3. Take care of yourself – Don’t forget to build in time for self-care. Maintain your resilience by taking breaks, getting enough rest, exercising, eating healthily, staying hydrated and finding ways to de-stress; these are all essential for keeping your energy up and maintaining balance in life.

4. Create a professional network – Developing relationships with other HR professionals can be beneficial in more ways than one. Not only will you gain new insights and perspectives, but you can also exchange resources and support each other.

5. Remain organised – Being organised will make it easier to manage tasks and deadlines efficiently. Invest in tools that support productivity such as digital calendars and task management software. This way you can minimise stress and maximise output.

Finding Support

We raise the question: Where do HR professionals go for their support? 

We use our local CIPD branches for networking and knowledge exchange. But there may be other avenues that HR professionals explore, such as HR Ninjas or similar communities. 

Exploring different support networks can provide insights into gaps that may exist.

Taking Care of HR

Amid the daily responsibilities of supporting businesses and employees, HR professionals often forget to prioritise their own wellbeing. 

It’s crucial to remember that self-care is not selfish but essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. 

By investing in their personal growth, HR professionals can enhance their ability to support others effectively. Taking the time to recharge, seeking mentorship, attending HR-focused conferences or joining professional development programmes are all ways to nurture and strengthen their own skills.

Taking Care of HR

As we head into International HR Day, let’s acknowledge the incredible work HR professionals do while recognising their own need for support and care. 

As we focus on building inclusive workplaces, let’s not forget the importance of fostering a supportive community within the HR field itself. By coming together, sharing experiences and exploring new avenues of support, we can strengthen our profession and pave the way for a brighter future.

Happy International HR Day to all the HR superheroes out there! 

(Credit: European Association For People Management)