Is the HR Function Getting Obsolete – Part III
This concluding part looks at some specific skills that HR professionals should focus on developing to stay relevant in an uncertain future
Skills for tomorrow
HR professionals need to develop a diverse set of skills to thrive in their roles and contribute effectively to organisational success. Let us discuss some specific skills that HR professionals should focus on developing to cope with the workplace of the future. By focusing on developing these skills, HR professionals can adapt to the evolving workplace and make valuable contributions to their organisations. Continuous learning, professional development programs, and networking opportunities can further enhance these skill sets and ensure their effectiveness in tomorrow’s workplace.
- Business Acumen: To be effective partners to senior management, HR professionals should develop business acumen. They should understand the industry landscape, market trends, and the organisation’s financial aspects. This knowledge enables HR professionals to align HR strategies with business objectives and make informed decisions that contribute to the organisation’s overall success.
- Change Management: In a rapidly evolving business environment, HR professionals must be adept at managing change. They should have the skills to assess the impact of organisational changes, develop effective communication plans, and support employees through transitions. Change management skills are crucial for facilitating smooth organisational transformations and ensuring employee engagement and productivity.
- Data Analytics: HR professionals should acquire proficiency in data analytics to leverage workforce data effectively. They should be able to collect, analyse, and interpret data to make informed decisions, identify trends, and develop strategies that align with organisational goals.
- Diversity and Inclusion: With increasing emphasis on diversity and inclusion, HR professionals need to develop skills to create inclusive work environments. This includes understanding unconscious bias, promoting diversity in recruitment and talent management practices, and implementing initiatives that foster a culture of inclusivity and belonging.
- Emotional Intelligence: HR professionals interact with employees at various levels and deal with sensitive and complex issues. Developing emotional intelligence allows HR professionals to empathise with employees, understand their needs, and handle challenging situations with empathy and diplomacy. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and effective communication are essential components of emotional intelligence.
- Employment Law and Compliance: Staying updated with employment laws and regulations is crucial for HR professionals. They should have a solid understanding of labour laws, regulations related to equal employment opportunity, diversity, and inclusion, and other relevant legal frameworks. This knowledge ensures compliance and mitigates legal risks for the organisation.
- HR Metrics and Analytics: HR professionals should have a strong grasp of HR metrics and analytics to measure the impact of HR initiatives, track employee performance, and assess the effectiveness of HR programs. By understanding key metrics such as employee turnover, engagement levels, and training ROI, HR professionals can make data-driven decisions and continuously improve HR practices.
- Strategic Thinking: HR professionals need to think strategically and align HR practices with overall business objectives. They should have a deep understanding of the organisation’s vision, mission, and goals, and be able to develop HR strategies that support them. Strategic thinking involves anticipating future workforce needs, identifying skill gaps, and planning for succession.
- Talent Management and Development: HR professionals should focus on talent management strategies, including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and employee development. They should have a keen eye for identifying top talent, implementing effective performance evaluation systems, and designing learning and development programs that foster employee growth and engagement.
- Technological Savviness: Keeping up with technological advancements is crucial for HR professionals. They should be familiar with HR software and tools, such as applicant tracking systems, performance management software, and employee self-service platforms. Additionally, understanding emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and automation can help HR professionals streamline processes and improve efficiency.
Change yourself when the world changes
To remain relevant in the face of changing dynamics, HR professionals need to adapt and upskill themselves. They must acquire knowledge and expertise in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, remote work management, and data analytics. HR professionals must also develop strong interpersonal skills, as they are increasingly required to act as coaches, mediators, and champions of employee well-being.
While the HR function has undergone significant changes, it is far from becoming obsolete. Though technology has automated certain administrative tasks, the strategic value of HR in managing talent, fostering employee engagement, and driving organisational success cannot be overstated. The ability of HR professionals to leverage data, build strategic partnerships, and adapt to new realities is crucial for their continued relevance.
Furthermore, HR professionals are getting increasingly involved in shaping organisational culture and fostering employee engagement. They work closely with senior leaders to define and communicate the company’s values, mission, and vision. By promoting a positive work environment and designing employee recognition and reward programs, HR professionals contribute to higher levels of employee satisfaction, productivity, and retention.
As organisations navigate the complexities of the future, the HR function will play a pivotal role in shaping the workforce of tomorrow. Survival is all about changing yourself when the world changes.
[Concluded]
