Putting the “human” back in human resources
Published: 5 July 2019
Article: https://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/636/192859.html
A study recently published by the Journal of Economic and Financial Sciences confirms that as South Africa’s popularity as a tourist destination increases, the need for skilled human capital increases too. Especially during the festive season, the hospitality industry employs additional human resources (HR) to meet increased demand. This influx requires the effective management of HR and operations, ensuring only the best customer experiences are delivered.
Traditionally, the HR department has been subject to an array of stereotypes. Whatever image comes to mind, it is widely accepted that “traditional” HR serves as a place to go for help. Yet, as new technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning continue to infiltrate and automate the HR space, many employees fear that the “human” aspects are falling to the wayside – leaving employees alone to deal with cold user interfaces.
Despite these fears, leveraging the latest digital tools in the HR department can actually help businesses to manage the workforce. This technology not only impacts the bottom line, but also creates a more enjoyable, human experience.
How modern software solutions can support the optimisation of a company’s talent and HR teams
With the rise of hiring analytics and big data, HR departments can more effectively and efficiently match a particular candidate with the job opening that requires his or her specific skill set. Finding the right candidates for the right job is essential. Just as Netflix’s algorithm is able to identify and suggest content based on a viewer’s past preferences, HR leaders can leverage cloud-based software solutions to access talent potential and determine the best fit for each role.
Technology will also drive the investment of more time and energy in talent development. By 2025, machines will perform more tasks than humans in the workplace, according to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs 2018 report. Although developments in AI and automation could cause 75 million jobs to be displaced, another 133 million new jobs are projected to emerge, creating a total increase of 58 million new jobs over the next five years.
To accommodate this massive workforce shift, no less than 54% of all employees will require significant reskilling and upskilling by 2020, which is why HR leaders need to put greater emphasis on developing their most important asset: their people.