Since the onset of the pandemic, the role of the CHRO has become increasingly complex, as HR leaders have tackled everything from creating new work environments to assisting employees with rapidly rising mental health issues and financial wellness concerns.

Now, CEOs are pushing for a return to the office while employees resist. These responsibilities, coupled with the growing expectations from the C-suite and board of directors of having a strategic CHRO on board, have made the role of a CHRO more demanding. In such a challenging environment, informal advisors like other CHROs, CEOs, or high-ranking executives in other departments can be valuable resources, says Bill Conaty, president of Conaty Consulting and former senior vice president of human resources for General Electric.

In addition to helping CHROs navigate increasing pressure, informal advisors can be crucial to reducing the isolation CHROs often feel, and that can stunt their growth. CHROs may operate in a lonely role, where they are part of the C-suite but many feel like outliers whose function is treated differently than others, Academy to Innovate HR found in a report. Savvy CHROs will seek out informal advisors to help them navigate, grow and excel in their role, says Conaty, who oversaw GE's HR department for 15 years before retiring in 2007.