Recent studies have highlighted the differences between what CEOs consider less relevant and what they deem crucial for human resources (HR) functions. Two pie charts clearly illustrate these priorities.
What CEOs Don’t Care About: According to the first chart, CEOs do not place much importance on traditional HR functions such as:
- Keeping clean personnel files (25%)
- Sending culture surveys (20%)
- Updating HR manuals (15%)
- Having SHRM certifications (15%)
- Knowing every labor law detail (10%)
- Planning office team activities (10%)
- Tracking attendance records (5%)
What CEOs Want from HR: The second chart shows the HR functions that CEOs consider essential for business success:
- Spotting future leaders before someone else does (25%)
- Finding talent matches, not just posting job ads (20%)
- Connecting talent moves to revenue growth (20%)
- Turning talent data into market advantages (15%)
- Building teams that exceed performance goals (10%)
- Predicting skill gaps before business slows down (10%)
According to a Gartner survey, 56% of CEOs consider growth as the top priority for 2025, followed by technology implementation (42%) and strengthening the organization’s operating model (36%)
Additionally, 76% of U.S. employees agree that there is a clear link between company culture and personal productivity.
These charts highlight a significant shift in CEO expectations, who now seek a more strategic and proactive approach from HR, focused on growth and competitive advantage.