Meet HR Karen: The Rule-Enforcing Coworker Every Office Has

James Mason -

Meet the HR Karen: Every Workplace Has One


From the satirical series: Office Action Heroes (and Villains)

"She's always got something to say, and if she doesn't agree with what you're doing, she'll tell you about it."

Introduction

If you've ever worked in an office (or even virtually), chances are you've encountered a certain type of colleague who always seems to be there—without ever actually doing anything helpful.

Introducing the HR Karen: the corporate busybody who exists to remind you that you're probably breaking some rule—even if you aren’t.

Who Is the HR Karen?

The HR Karen is a classic workplace archetype: confrontational, self-righteous, and quick to enforce rules you didn’t even know existed.

She thrives on policing others—especially when she can do it in a way that feels important and necessary (to her).


She’s the one who will put you straight, loudly and confidently, even if she’s technically wrong.


But remember: when she’s wrong, she’s actually right.

Signs You're Dealing with a HR Karen

  • Sends surprise policy reminder emails
  • Calls you out in front of colleagues for minor oversights
  • ✉Hands out disciplinary letters with delight
  • Catchphrase: “You can’t do that—it’s not company policy.”

Why Every Office Has (At Least) One

  • The HR Karen is part of the ecosystem—an unavoidable side effect of corporate life.
  • Her self-worth is tied to how many people she can “correct.”
  • She sticks to the book even when the book doesn’t make sense.
  • She thrives on hierarchy, thrives on rules, and often punches down—especially on new starters or anyone she perceives as vulnerable.

To her, every minor misstep is a personal victory.

Surviving the HR Karen: A Quick Guide

  • Know your rights. Study the HR policy book inside and out.
  • Stay calm. Don’t react publicly—stay professional.
  • Play her game. If she crosses a line, report it. Try to get a witness.
  • Document everything. Yes, even that coffee receipt. 😄

HR Karen

“HR Karen action figure in packaging with rulebook, mobile phone, and framed leader photo.”

Share Your HR Karen Stories

Do you work with one? Have you been one?

👉 Drop your best #WorkplaceAbsurdities moments in the comments or tag @OfficeBantomime.

🔮 Teaser

💬 Coming next:
The Office Snitch:the receipts, the contacts, and a direct line to your manager’s manager.