HR is making a positive contribution to business but needs to do more to raise its profile, according to HR recruiters.

A recent survey from the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development (CIPD) shows that some new entrants to HR do not think the function commands enough power or repsect compared with other departments.

Martyn Wright, managing director at Oakleaf HR Search & Selection, told Recruiter: “The problem HR suffers with is the impact it has is not as visible. Modern HR professionals talk the same language as finance and legal. It is much more about tangible metrics.

“I think HR in this current economic situation is proving its worth. You have got line managers begging for HR’s help because you have senior managers who have gone and junior managers who don’t know what to do.”

Alison Hughes, director at Higher Talent, adds: “It is the age-old story of HR demonstrating that they are adding value to the business and demonstrate that quantifiably and being commercial.”