A third of HR managers see polarisation in the workplace increasing

Amsterdam, 30 January 2025: Just over a third (35%) of HR managers notice that polarisation in the workplace is increasing. Differences between people can put serious pressure on working relationships. HR managers experience this too: almost four in ten (39%) have seen employees leave because of differing views with colleagues. This is according to research by Pro Contact among more than 500 HR managers. Polarisation, the sharpening of divisions between groups, appears to be a growing problem within organisations.

Polarisation in the workplace puts relationships under pressure

The growing polarisation is clearly leaving its mark on the atmosphere within organisations, so much so that no less than 28 per cent of HR managers say it leads to more frequent conflicts at work. This brings many challenges. For example, employees turn out to be less willing to work with colleagues who hold a different opinion. A problem also recognised by 28 per cent of HR managers. Three quarters therefore encourage open conversations within teams in their organisation to prevent polarisation.

Remco Kraal, COO at Pro Contact: "Polarisation in the workplace is increasing and that's a real challenge for organisations. As an HR manager, you naturally want a pleasant working atmosphere, but also a diverse team. That means you have to find a balance: shared values on the one hand, but also room for different perspectives. Diversity of opinion brings new ideas and insights, and that's exactly what makes it so valuable. You want to prevent polarisation, but respecting and accepting other opinions is crucial for growth and innovation."

About Pro Contact

Pro Contact helps companies find new staff in a modern and effective way, using the Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) model. Through social media, job boards and other online channels, Pro Contact connects companies with their ideal target group. The agency searches on LinkedIn, approaches candidates and creates content that will knock your socks off. And all for a low monthly fee. Pro Contact runs recruitment campaigns in various industries such as logistics, engineering, education and business services.