McLean & Company, a division of Info-Tech Research Group, has released a new industry guide aimed at helping human resources (HR) professionals manage increasing job-related stress and strategic demands. The guide, “Effectively Manage HR’s Work,” addresses the growing role of HR in organizational strategy, a responsibility that has risen significantly from 36% in 2021 to 50% in 2024.
The guide details various methods for HR workload management, acknowledging that not all strategies may suit every organization. McLean & Company recommends that HR departments evaluate their current resources and the potential benefits and drawbacks of each method before implementation.
Amani Gharib, PhD, Director of HR Research & Advisory Services at McLean & Company, highlighted the importance of this resource. “HR is dedicating more time to strategic responsibilities, a positive direction for the field,” Gharib explained. “However, HR organizations are managing this increased load without additional resources, leading to decreased effectiveness and heightened workplace stress and burnout.”
The guide outlines the detrimental effects of unmanaged stress, including lower engagement, performance, and higher turnover, which can cost an organization six to nine months’ worth of an employee’s salary to address. It also touches on systemic barriers that affect HR’s operational efficiency, such as negative stereotypes that underestimate HR’s business relevance.
The comprehensive resource is divided into three sections: evaluating HR goals and capacity, reviewing workload management methods, and initiating change management processes. These sections aim to support HR leaders in prioritizing tasks that align with broader organizational goals while maintaining workforce effectiveness.
To further assist HR leaders, the guide offers a “Manage HR’s Work Workbook,” an accompanying tool for documenting workloads and selecting appropriate management strategies. McLean & Company also provides access to on-demand webinars and professional development credits through partnerships with SHRM, HRCI, and HRPA.
The new guide and further resources are available on McLean & Company’s website, where HR professionals can also register for upcoming webinars on various topics relevant to the evolving workplace landscape. For more detailed insights, media professionals are encouraged to contact Kelsey King, Senior Communications Manager at McLean & Company.