While some sectors are perceived as less complex, every sector holds its unique importance and contributes significantly to an organization's success, its relationships with customers, and its workforce. However, not all sectors are equal in terms of their work environment. A recent survey, based on Glassdoor data and commissioned by AI résumé experts ResumeBlaze, revealed that Information Technology (IT) emerged as the second-worst sector. Shockingly, only 12% of employers in areas such as computer systems technology and IT received a Glassdoor rating of at least 4.5 stars.

Here's a list of the sectors with the lowest ratings:

• Military and Protective Services: 5.1%
• Information Technology (IT): 12.2%
• Customer Service and Support: 12.8%
• Operations: 12.8%
• Research and Science: 13.2%
• Human Resources: 13.5%
• Finance and Accounting: 13.9%
• Product and Project Management: 14.5%
• Consulting: 15.1%
• Administrative: 15.2%

On the other hand, a Forbes report highlighted the legal sector as having the best employers, with a rating that surpassed military and protective services by a remarkable 311%.

In the realm of Human Resources, leaders have become pivotal for senior executives seeking solutions to complex organisational challenges. This has led HR teams to tackle a growing list of pressing issues, including managing various work arrangements, enforcing return-to-office policies, and addressing talent acquisition and retention in a competitive job market.

Several surveys reveal a surge in burnout levels within the HR profession. According to a Gartner survey, 71% of HR leaders find burnout among HR teams more challenging than pre-pandemic times. A People Management report also echoed a similar trend, with 44% of nearly 5,000 HR respondents admitting to experiencing stress or mental health issues due to their work.

The HR sector faces considerable fatigue due to constantly managing crises, such as the great resignation, skills shortages, and the cost-of-living crisis. In fact, HR leaders lead in two key burnout metrics, as indicated in the Executive Networks 2023 Future of Working and Learning Report. 

Economic concerns and daily stressors have caused burnout in more than two-thirds of employees (69%), while HR leaders are also experiencing fatigue, overwhelm, and burnout. They are most likely to leave their current employers, according to the report.

During an interview, Alessandria Polizzi, founder of resiliency training and stress-reduction firm Verdant Consulting, acknowledged that HR leaders are grappling with the same challenges as others but must maintain composure to keep their organisations on track. This challenge is significant, as HR leaders have been at the forefront of helping others for the past three years, often neglecting their own well-being and health.

How to prevent burnout in HR

Balancing Act: HR professionals often grapple with a dilemma – should we rely on logic or follow our emotions? At such times, it's essential to take a step back. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day, and your job, while important, is not your entire life. Identify your stressors, understand your challenges, and streamline your work for better balance.

Celebrate the wins: Just as you extend tokens of celebration to others, do the same for yourself. Set personal goals, acknowledge your achievements, and celebrate your successes. Don't forget to extend this spirit to your teams as well. A kind word of encouragement and appreciation can go a long way in maintaining well-being.

Plan your life, not just work: Create a to-do list that encompasses not only work tasks but life goals too. Rediscover the things you were passionate about as a child – learning a new language, exploring a new art form, or traveling. Make time for these pursuits and find your own balance between work and personal life.