HR Satisfaction Survey 2012

Published on: April 5, 2012
Culture

Mapping the Experience, Expectations, and Evolution of HR Professionals in India

Why This Report Matters

The HR Satisfaction Survey 2012, conducted by HRhelpdesk.in, is a landmark study that explores the lived experiences, challenges, and aspirations of HR professionals across India. With data from 509 companies across 73 locations, including international responses, this report offers a deep dive into how HR functions are perceived, structured, and supported within organizations.

As HR continues to evolve from a transactional function to a strategic partner, understanding the satisfaction levels and systemic gaps becomes essential. This report provides actionable insights for HR leaders, business heads, and policymakers aiming to build empowered, aligned, and motivated HR teams.

Survey Overview

  • Survey Period: February 20 – March 25, 2012
  • Qualified Responses: 509 companies
  • Industries Covered: 19 sectors including IT, Manufacturing, Retail, Real Estate, Financial Services, Education, and more
  • Company Types: Pvt Ltd (India & Overseas), Public Ltd, Partnerships, NGOs
  • Geographic Spread: 73 locations, including 14 international cities across Americas, Africa, and Europe

Key Themes & Findings

1. HR’s Role & Recognition

  • Only 37% of companies viewed HR as a value-add business partner; many still see it as a support or recruitment function.
  • Recognition from line managers was present in most companies, but scope for improvement remains.
  • Respect for HR professionals was high, with 70% reporting positive experiences.

2. Work Environment & Culture

  • 47% of respondents felt their work schedules were balanced, though NGOs and social sector roles often required 10+ hour days.
  • Organizational culture was a mixed bag while some sectors like Retail and Hospitality showed positivity, others like Public Ltd companies had significant room for improvement.

3. Career Development & Training

  • Opportunities for career growth were a motivator for only 48%, while 26% found them demotivating especially in Public Ltd and Real Estate sectors.
  • Training environments were motivating for just 42%, highlighting a need for stronger learning frameworks.
  • Skill utilization was lacking in many organizations, with only 45% feeling their competencies were fully leveraged.

4. Compensation & Rewards

  • Compensation emerged as a major factor influencing satisfaction, with 37% reporting it as a demotivator.
  • Reward parity for HR teams (beyond salary) was present in 50% of companies, but still not universal.
  • Real Estate sector showed the least parity, with nearly 70% reporting no reward mechanisms.

5. HR Deliverables & Alignment

  • A significant number of companies lacked clear HR goals aligned with business objectives.
  • Only 56% had clarity on how HR supports business outcomes.
  • Written communication of business objectives was missing in 61% of HR functions.
  • Automobile sector showed the best alignment; Consumer Products and Real Estate lagged behind.

Industry Satisfaction Rankings

Most Satisfied HR Professionals:

  • HR Consultants
  • Retail (Wholesale & Distribution)
  • Professional Services
  • Consumer Products
  • Hospitality

Least Satisfied HR Professionals:

  • Real Estate
  • Transportation/Shipping/Logistics
  • Financial Services
  • Electronics/Electrical

Why Download the Full Report?

This public synopsis offers a high-level overview. The full report includes:

  • Detailed industry-wise breakdowns
  • Comparative analysis across company types and sizes
  • Insights into HR motivation, recognition, and alignment
  • Actionable recommendations for HR strategy and organizational development

Download Report

About Author

Mandeep Singh