September 26th is Human Resources Professional Day, a day to recognize and celebrate HR professionals for the important contributions they make in organizations. These are the people who help shape workplace culture, guide teams through challenges, and support leaders and employees in ways that are often invisible but deeply impactful such as coaching and supporting leaders on dealing with conflict and other challenging situations in their team.
This day offers a chance to reflect on the important role of HR professionals in your organization. Human Resource professionals are often the ones navigating sensitive issues, supporting conflict resolution, guiding performance processes, and ensuring compliance with evolving legislation, all while keeping people and culture at the centre of their work.
As a professional speaker, trainer, consultant, and facilitator, I’ve had the privilege of working with thousands of HR professionals across Canada and beyond. Whether speaking at HR industry conferences, developing training programs, or consulting on workplace initiatives, I’ve seen firsthand the difference these dedicated individuals make. Their influence goes beyond policy as they help create safer, more connected, and more resilient workplace environments.
Over the years, my collaborations with HR professionals have included:
- Speaking at HR industry conferences, summits, and events (and writing in their trade magazines)
- Facilitating professional development training for HR teams, leaders, and employees
- Supporting the development of team charters and workplace culture initiatives
- Collaborating on employee recognition programs, including provincial government awards
- Consulting on conflict resolution policies and employee performance tools
- Designing workplace feedback surveys and review processes
- Mediating disputes in workplaces across Canada, often in partnership with HR leaders
And that’s only the beginning.
Lessons I’ve Learned from HR Professionals
After 28 years in business, I can’t count the number of HR professionals I’ve had the pleasure to meet and work with. Many of them stand out in my memories for the wisdom they’ve shared, the innovations they’ve led, and the impact they’ve had on their organizations.
Some of the invaluable lessons I’ve learned include:
- Understanding emerging workplace trends and changes that shape workplaces and how they affect policies, culture, and employees
- Seeing the creative and innovative ways organizations are addressing workplace challenges and change
- Learning about new legislation across provinces and how it directly impacts workplace practices
- Appreciating the everyday dedication HR leaders show in building positive, sustainable workplaces
Each of these insights has shaped my own work and continues to influence how I show up for clients and their teams.
A Day to Celebrate and Reflect
Today and every day, I celebrate HR professionals for the many ways they contribute to organizational success, business sustainability, and to the lives of employees. You create safe workplace cultures, foster collaboration, and ensure that people feel supported. You carry the responsibility of some of the toughest decisions, often behind the scenes, and still show up with compassion and professionalism.
Take a moment today to reflect on the impact you’ve had in your workplace, and the many ways you’ve supported others. Your influence extends far beyond policies and processes—you shape the very culture of the workplace.
Thank you for all that you do.
P.S. In Canada, HR professionals are also celebrated on May 20th. Mark your calendar now and start planning ways to acknowledge and appreciate the HR leaders in your organization.