There are all different sorts of jokes we get thrown our way in HR. We’re the fun police, we’re buzzkills, we’re moles, and we have no chill whatsoever. It’s a wonder we manage to have friends being that lame, amirite?
Let’s dispel some of this, shall we?
Myth 1: Absolutely Positively No Fun Allowed
I recently caved to my Instagram algorithm and bought a sweatshirt that says, “I’m Calling HR.” I giggled for days waiting for it to arrive, but when I finally wore it, I was shocked to realize that I was the only one laughing. Everyone else just shrugged, assuming I was dead serious. This, folks, is why I shouldn’t be doing standup.
Sure, there are things we have to care about in our role. We have to care about helping to create teams that collaborate, are driven to deliver, and [gasp] like doing this work with each other at all. We have to care about keeping our companies out of the crosshairs of the law. I’m not much of a gambler, but I would bet with great confidence, that 100% of CEOs want 0% of their time spent in a courtroom or in settlement negotiations with current or former employees.
The real magic happens when we lay the groundwork first—think of it as setting up the rules for a game. Once the expectations are clear and the structure is solid, that’s when the creativity and collaboration can really take off. It’s like building a playground—get the foundation right, and then everyone’s free to have fun.
Myth 2: HR - We Show Up Only on Your First and Last Day
HR often gets pigeonholed as the department that just hires and fires, but that’s like saying a restaurant is only about five-star meals or epic disasters—the extremes that get all the attention. Just like the reviews on Glassdoor or Yelp, where you typically hear from those who had either a phenomenal experience or a terrible one, people tend to overlook the steady, everyday work HR does that keeps everything running smoothly. The reality is, most experiences—whether at work or dining out—fall somewhere in the middle. It’s the consistent, unremarkable moments that actually build a company’s strong culture or a restaurant’s loyal customer base. HR is about making sure those everyday interactions are positive, even if they don’t make for headline reviews. After all, the middle ground is where the real work gets done, and that’s where lasting impact happens.
Myth 3: The Doctor Is In
Here’s one I don’t totally mind: HR is the unofficial people whisperer where you go to unpack your work woes, seek sage advice, or get a quick therapy session. It’s as if my Zoom room doubles as a therapist couch!
While it’s true that we’re here to listen, guide, and help navigate the complexities of work, it’s worth noting we’re (or at least that I am) not actually licensed psychotherapists—though sometimes it feels like we’re just one degree away! What I love about this myth is that it highlights a key tenet of HR that I cherish: being of service to those around me. There’s a deep satisfaction in helping colleagues find their way, solve a problem, or just feel heard.
So while I may not have a degree in psychology hanging on my wall (history and political science - go Albion College Brits!), I don’t mind leaning into the role of the team listener. In fact, it’s an honor to hold the trust of the team and to be someone they can turn to when they need support.
To bring it all home, I love this quote from H. Jackson Brown Jr.: “Earn your success based on service to others, not at the expense of others.” That’s the HR I’m here for —less detective, less mole, more team compass. Because honestly, I’d rather guide the way than pull the reins!
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