This survey report from Croner Reward and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development reveals that public sector HR workers recorded the lowest rise in the last year with a 3 per cent increase in salary. Private sector workers experienced the highest increase with an average of 4 per cent rise, followed by the voluntary sector with 3.25 per cent. Salaries in all sectors increased by an average 3.25 per cent.

The survey shows that the profession is cautious about the year ahead, but still predicts a rise in HR earnings. Almost half forecast that they will expect a 3 per cent pay rise in 2009, while only 19 per cent of them foresee a 4% increase.

The survey also reveals that HR professionals work longer hours than ever. Seventy-three per cent of the respondents work 40 hours a week or more, compared to 62 per cent in 2007. And among the respondents in the 2008 survey who recorded working more than 40 hours, 44 per cent worked between 41 and 45 hours a week. This increase is reflected in all sectors, with the majority of HR professionals in the private sector working 40 hours a week or more. They are followed by the voluntary sector HR employees, 68 per cent of whom work 40 hours or more. In the Public sector, 61 per cent of the respondents work more than 40 hours a week.

Within job levels, Personnel Administrators are working harder than ever, with 65 per cent of them working 40 hours a week or more, compared to 36 per cent only in 2007. Personnel Directors showed a slight increase, with 84 per cent of them working more than 40 hours compared to 82 per cent in 2007.

The report is available at http://www.croner-reward.co.uk. Cost 430 pounds.