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If you’ve ever wondered how to become an HR consultant, you’re not alone. Many employed HR professionals reach a point where the corporate ladder no longer fits their ambitions or lifestyle. The desire for flexibility, freedom, and the chance to make a bigger impact often sparks the question: “Could I set up as an HR consultant?”
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Let’s Have an Honest Conversation About Becoming an HR Consultant
Your personal brand
A strong LinkedIn profile, clear website, and real case studies build trust — and trust increases your rates.
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By Sarah Hamilton-Gill FCIPD
While wellbeing has become a mainstream conversation in the workplace, the wellbeing of HR professionals themselves is still largely overlooked.
In my latest podcast episode, I explore the rising crisis of burnout in HR – especially among those who’ve left corporate life to run their own businesses. The data is clear: burnout is not just common, it’s become dangerously normalised.
Entrepreneurs at Breaking Point
Running a business brings freedom but also intense pressure. Recent stats show:
42% of US small-business owners have experienced burnout
37% of UK founders say work has harmed their health
Nearly 50% of Canadian entrepreneurs face ongoing mental health issues
We often swap corporate stress for entrepreneurial stress – and it’s taking a toll.
HR Professionals: Supporting Everyone but Themselves
According to the HR Wellbeing Survey 2024:
74% have experienced burnout at least once
Over 60% report multiple episodes
91% feel lonely in their role
Half are considering leaving within a year
A third have taken stress-related sick leave
Over half have had no recent performance feedback
These figures reflect a sector in crisis, and for HR consultants juggling both people and business demands, the impact can be even more intense.
What’s Driving the Burnout?
The causes are layered: unrealistic expectations, emotional labour without support, lack of visibility or boundaries, and little opportunity for feedback or reflection. Many feel constantly "on" and professionally isolated.
How We Start to Recover
Burnout is not a badge of honour. It’s a red flag. Here's what can help:
Setting and maintaining boundaries
Seeking support through coaching or peer networks
Creating time for personal reflection
Saying no when necessary
Joining communities designed to support HR professionals – like the HR Consultancy Academy
This episode is an invitation to start taking our own well being seriously. The calm exterior so often expected of HR masks a growing internal crisis – and it’s time we addressed it.
Listen to the full podcast for the full conversation and practical ways forward.
#LeapIntoHRConsulting #TheHRConsultancyAcademy #HRBurnout #MentalHealthInHR #EntrepreneurWellbeing #WellbeingAtWork #BoundariesInBusiness
