Innovation in science and technology is an important part of any discussion about the future—and the field of HR is no exception. Companies everywhere are becoming more and more aware that rapid technological changes mean they will probably need to invest more not only in terms of apps, devices, and technology, but also in training specialists to use them. The European Union (EU) has already conducted a study showing just how “success will be dependent on EU Member States’ commitment to increase investments in innovation, equip the workforce with relevant skills at all levels and deliver higher-value goods and services successfully traded globally.”
The EU is not alone in needing specialists who can contribute to high-tech novelties, as well as to the transformation of their companies. With change being the new buzzword for companies everywhere, Human Resources (HR) departments in the US will also have to come up with new strategies to pave the way for new digital processes. After all, they are in charge of selecting the best talent and they will make the difference in hiring and managing industries in the future.
One thing is certain: as we make our way into full digital expansion, all companies must adjust their strategies to the new technological scene not just to survive in their markets, but also to become leaders. And that means hiring, training, and managing the right people with the right sets of skills.
Embracing Technology and Digital Skills
HR departments everywhere have started paying attention to apps and skills that help them navigate better through changes brought on by the digital age. Artificial intelligence (AI) and analytics are already used for many purposes, from employee retention to designing the right recruitment strategy. For example, a candidate might be encouraged to complete a job interview with a personalized online assistant that can help them, as well as the HR department, save time and money by skipping the traditional application procedure.
Strategies that Successfully Involve Young People
With a lot of misconceptions about Millennial employees already in circulation everywhere, HR departments should consider the fact that Millennials are now the largest generation in the workplace. Millennials are better equipped for dealing with change and technological advances, since this younger generation of workers is inclined to get almost all information online. HR managers should consider this and provide the right tools for the best employee experience.
Useful information should always be available online for younger employees. By making information available with just one click, companies will prove themselves to be better suited to satisfy the needs of those born between the early 1980s and the mid-1990s.
The Need to Be Human-centric at All Times
Embracing new digital skills and apps doesn’t mean taking employees and their needs out of the equation. On the contrary, HR managers should focus more on the employee experience, since positive experiences lead to higher recruitment and retention rates. The competition for talent is growing, as highly skilled professionals and leaders are becoming harder and harder to find worldwide. This is the reason why HR managers everywhere need to provide their employees with the best environment and work experience and convince them to work happily and productively.
Flexible Work Arrangements
According to a study, “preparing for the post-2020 period will require a more flexible, open and streamlined hierarchical system to test and implement new methods and practices and integrate fresh managerial profiles.” But with flexibility also being a new buzzword in HR, the changes will not stop here. Younger employees are known to prefer freedom and flexibility in working hours and location. This means HR departments everywhere should become better equipped in recruiting, managing, and motivating remote teams of workers.
Managing Healthcare Benefits for Employees
Companies that invest time and money in order to provide their employees with health and wellness benefits have lower rates of absenteeism and turnover, and higher rates of productivity. To sum up, healthy employees cost their employers less. Integrating programs that might improve employee health and wellbeing is a must in 2020, as companies everywhere have already started to profit from using these benefits to lure talent and drive up the retention rates of their current employees.
HR managers should understand new trends and shape their approaches to the future accordingly, considering both change and flexibility. Managers should also consider that the best way to recruit and keep workers happy is to provide them with employee-centric environments.
