People Matter More Than Ever: Why Fractional HR Is Here to Stay
By Holistic Team | Featuring Carrie Pinkham, Principal HR Advisor
Let’s face it – running a business today isn’t easy. Budgets are tight, teams are lean, and the pressure to get things right has never been higher. But through all of this, one truth keeps rising to the surface: people matter more than ever.
That’s what we believe at Holistic. It’s also what Carrie Pinkham has seen firsthand in her work as a fractional HR advisor. Carrie joined us to discuss what fractional HR is, why it works, and how this model is revolutionizing the way companies of all sizes operate.
So... What Is Fractional HR?
In simple terms, fractional HR means getting high-level HR support without hiring someone full-time. Whether it's covering for a leave of absence, stepping in during a leadership transition, or helping build processes from the ground up, fractional HR provides companies with the flexibility and expertise they need when it matters most.
As Carrie puts it:
“I’ve helped companies with everything from setting up employee handbooks to designing performance review systems to reviewing benefits. Sometimes I’m with a company 10 hours a month. Sometimes it’s more. It’s really about what they need.”
It’s not one-size-fits-all—it’s just enough of the right thing at the right time.
Why Fractional HR Just Makes Sense
We’re living in a moment where companies are cautious about headcount, but still deeply care about their people. That’s where fractional HR fits perfectly. It allows businesses to stay nimble, without sacrificing the strategy and support their people need to thrive.
And let’s be honest – hiring a full-time Head of People takes time (and money). But the work can’t wait. Fractional HR fills that gap with senior-level support, instantly.
Why Companies Should Optimize the Use of Fractional HR Resources
When you work with Holistic and Hirewell, you’re not just hiring one person. You’re tapping into a whole team of experts who’ve been through this before – across industries, company sizes, and business challenges.
“I’ve seen more in 8 months of fractional work than I did in 4 years as a full-time HR leader,” Carrie said. “And if I don’t know the answer, someone on our team does.”
Small Companies, Big Impact
One of the most powerful aspects of fractional HR is its reach. Even the tiniest companies – think 5 people can benefit. These teams don’t need (or can’t afford) a full-time HR person. But they still deserve a structured onboarding process, clear policies, and someone to call when a tough situation comes up.
Fractional HR levels the playing field - bringing world-class support to companies who otherwise wouldn’t have access to it.
What Gives Us Hope
In a time where layoffs and headlines can make it feel like people are being forgotten, Carrie says she’s seeing the opposite.
“Companies are still investing in their people,” she said. “They may not be hiring a ton, but they care deeply about the employees they have.”
From rethinking onboarding to improving internal communication, there’s a real hunger to do things right, even with limited resources.
What Can You Do Today to Take Better Care of Your People?
We ended the conversation with a powerful question:
What’s one thing a leader can do—today—to take better care of their people?
Carrie had a few ideas:
Start with recognition. A genuine thank you, a shoutout in a meeting, a quick note of appreciation—it goes a long way.
Be transparent. Even when the news isn’t perfect, people value being in the loop. Trust grows when you share.
Get organized. From onboarding to policy updates, building structure creates a better employee experience
And here’s the best part: none of this costs a dime. It’s all about showing your team that they matter.
People First. Always.
Fractional HR isn’t just a temporary fix. It’s a smart, flexible, human way to support people, and it’s here to stay.
If you’re a business leader wondering how to better support your team without overextending your resources, fractional HR might be the solution you didn’t know you needed.
To learn more or talk with our team, reach out to:
📩 carrie@holisticindex.com | 📩 tom@holisticindex.com
We’re ready to meet you where you are and help your people thrive.