HR SOS: 7 Fires You Should’ve Put Out Yesterday

Let’s face it: HR isn’t just about policies and paperwork—sometimes it’s about straight-up fire prevention. And if you’re not careful, those little embers of drama, dysfunction, and denial can turn into full-blown workplace wildfires. Here are 7 HR emergencies you should’ve handled yesterday—but can still contain today.

1. The Toxic Top Performer

They bring in results but leave a wake of demoralized coworkers. If you haven’t addressed their behavior, you’ve just endorsed it. Document and coach—or prepare for mass attrition.

2. The Missing-in-Action Manager

If your leaders avoid conflict like the plague, their teams are probably struggling with unchecked issues. Training and accountability aren’t optional.

3. The Policy Black Hole

"Is that in the handbook?" shouldn’t be a guessing game. Vague, outdated, or missing policies can tank your credibility (and your defense in court).

4. The Documentation Desert

No one likes paperwork—but if it’s not written down, it didn’t happen. Get serious about your records or risk legal nightmares.

5. The Pay Equity Abyss

If you're not regularly auditing compensation, you’re probably paying the wrong people the wrong amounts. Fix it before someone else (like a lawyer) points it out.

6. The Disappearing Onboarding Plan

You hired a star, then ghosted them after Day 1. If your onboarding is just "Here’s your laptop, good luck," you’re setting them up to fail.

7. The Morale Sinkhole

Low morale is a silent killer. If employee engagement surveys feel more like cry-for-help letters, take action now.

Fire Drill Tip: Schedule a quarterly HR audit. Prevention beats panic.