HR workers skipping lunch to get work finished

More than half of HR professionals have admitted to not leaving their desk during lunch, according to new figures. The results to the Robert Walters Career Lifestyle Survey have shown that British professionals are more likely to power through rather than take a break, despite reports that taking a break can boost productivity.

Specialists are concerned that as HR positions continue to gain additional responsibilities, workers feel expected to work through their lunch instead of taking the opportunity to get away from the screen. 32% of respondents admitted to leaving the office for their lunch break, but less than half took advantage of a full lunch hour with 58% returning to their desk within 30 minutes.

“As the role of HR professionals broadens and senior managers look to them to provide strategic direction to the business, some HR specialists are struggling to balance these additional responsibilities with their core duties,” said Nick Allwood, HR recruitment manager at Robert Walters. “Managers must be conscious of the impact this can have on staff morale and productivity and ensure that a culture of working beyond doesn’t become the norm.”

Nearly two thirds of HR professionals believed company culture was to blame. 63% would consider looking for a new job if working long hours without recognition or overtime was expected, making it the second most popular reason for HR employees to consider leaving a company. Only a lack of career progression was more likely to get professionals to look elsewhere.

“As the scope of HR roles increases, employers must be conscious not to allow work-life balance to suffer if they want to attract and retain the best professionals,” continued Allwood. “While career progression is a more prominent concern for many HR professionals, the importance of work-life balance should not be underestimated when it comes to hiring and top talent.”