In a report released on November 30 by MindEdge Learning and the HR Certification Institute (HCRI), findings indicate that while remote human resources (HR) practices have become less widespread compared to a year ago, many organisations are still grappling with challenges in recruiting, hiring, and onboarding employees remotely.

Based on a survey involving 1,030 HRCI-certified HR professionals, over half of the respondents expressed that recruiting has become more challenging than it was before the pandemic, with only 8% finding it easier. Moreover, 35% reported that remote onboarding is more difficult than its in-person counterpart, while 17% found it easier. When it comes to interviews, 30% noted that remote interviews are less productive than face-to-face interviews, while 24% deemed them more productive.

Brad Neuenhaus, Chief Business Officer for MindEdge Learning, commented on the situation, stating, “It’s clear that most people want to get back to normal, but it’s hard for many of them to define what normal really means. The new American workplace is still a work in progress, so stay tuned.”

35% engage in remote HR practices occasionally, while the remaining 23% do not perform any HR functions remotely.

The survey revealed that 40% of respondents mentioned that their organization conducts HR functions remotely all or most of the time, a decrease from 52% the previous year. Another 35% engage in remote HR practices occasionally, while the remaining 23% do not perform any HR functions remotely.

Noteworthy challenges persist across companies, as 40% of HR professionals reported higher turnover rates than pre-pandemic, with 12% stating that turnover rates are significantly higher. Additionally, about two-thirds of respondents observed an increase in employee burnout, with 23% noting a major uptick in burnout at their organizations.

As work schedules evolve in the coming year, HR teams and leaders are advised to consider employee needs and preferences for remote, hybrid, and in-person work, as indicated by a recent checkr.com survey. More than half of the respondents in this survey expressed a preference for on-site work over remote work. However, opinions varied regarding potential advantages of in-office work, such as promotions, and whether employees should be compensated more for working in the physical workplace.