Although recent technological developments have encroached somewhat on the role of the HR professional – think chatbots, AI, automation of HR and training – this doesn’t mean that Human Resources have become obsolete.
On the contrary, if the Covid-19 pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that whilst many functions can be effectively carried out by computers, there is an ongoing need for human contact, communications and support which cannot simply be replaced by a computer keyboard.
The average HR department has undoubtedly enjoyed a number of benefits from employing modern technical solutions in recent years. Most professionals in the field would agree that with the support of the right software, the automation of recruitment, on-boarding and staff training provides an extremely valuable support system within any HR team, saving hundreds of man-hours, reducing human error and making for a generally more efficient department.
But whilst technology can provide a sound infrastructure within an HR team, it’s essential that this doesn’t entirely replace one-to-one contact. Human beings are social animals; we enjoy contact with other people and thrive in environments in which that contact is facilitated.
Of course, the Covid-19 pandemic has brought about a dramatic increase in the number of people working from home, which is not without its advantages for those of us who like to manage our own time, have mastered Zoom conference calls and like wearing our pyjamas to work. But as most of us can attest, this extreme form of professional distancing also has its disadvantages: feelings of becoming dissociated from the team, a lack of support or mentoring from colleagues and massive reductions in all-important social contact. Those chats over the water cooler and boring Monday meetings might have seemed pointless six months ago, but without them it’s hard to retain meaningful connections with co-workers.
Prior to the pandemic, there was undoubtedly a move towards greater automation and technological support within the workplace. Whilst this trend is likely to continue, the pandemic has also reminded us all of the invaluable role of interpersonal contact, communication and support, which in many workplaces is underpinned by the HR team.
In order to fuel and nurture innovation, creativity, productivity and above all satisfaction in the workplace – the key elements which facilitate growth – we have to prioritise engagement between co-workers, and remain fully invested in one another’s development. This process should be visible throughout an employee’s career; from recruitment, through on-boarding to career development, training and promotion.
In the modern workplace, the HR role – rather than being diminished by new tech – is perhaps more important than ever. HR professionals continue to prioritise the welfare of co-workers over all other aspects of the business. At the recruitment stage, this means addressing issues of equality, inclusion and diversity, and ensuring that new talent meets the objectives and standards of the organisation, in addition to possessing the required skillset for the role.
HR professionals must adapt to the challenges posed by the current pandemic, maintain high standards and help staff to feel secure and supported during this novel and unsettling time. This means working in tandem with tech, by identifying automated platforms which support and facilitate the processes of the organisation, support best practise, enable meaningful analysis and free up valuable time to carry out the essential, human aspects of the role.
Credentially offers an automated platform for managing the recruitment, on-boarding and training of staff, providing HR professionals with the help that they need to manage the complex demands of the job. Our software will help you to reduce costs, cut down on admin, hire staff faster and master compliance. Not only that, our systems are tailor-made to meet your specific needs, and provide the flexibility you need during the current crisis.
If you’ve got ten minutes to spare, have a look at our online demo and see what our software could do for you. We’re pretty certain you won’t be disappointed.
