Chief Human Resources Officers (CHROs) have a lot on their plates and, boy, do we know it! See, leading HR isn't just about hiring and firing anymore. It's about culture, technology, and juggling a million other bits and pieces. We're diving into the nitty-gritty of the top 10 priorities and trends that CHROs like you are putting on their radar.
And it's not just us talking. Some of the leading CHROs have opined and shared their insights on these topics. Continue reading to discover what's on the minds of leading CHROs and how they're navigating the complexities of today's HR landscape.
Employee Wellbeing - At the core of high productivity, lies employee wellbeing, both physical and mental.
Building Competencies - Gen Z is looking for quick growth and fit talent is scarce, building inhouse capability enhancement training is critical.
HR Digital Transformation - Using technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, virtual assistants, augmented reality, virtual reality, etc., to improve the life of the average employee in the organization is vital.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion - From formulating policies for pay equity to finding ways to widen the talent pool and accept people of all backgrounds is a must. It is not only great for the business, but the employees also feels appreciated.
As a CHRO, I feel that every CHRO should make it a point to share their goals for diversity, equity, and inclusion vociferously.
~ Chayan B., CHRO, Caere
What's on deck for CHROs in the near future? How are we redefining the way HR works? Can you navigate these seismic shifts and still keep your team on track? Let's find out.
The Top 10 Trends and Priorities
1. Embracing AI and Technology: Integrating AI and technology to improve workflow efficiency. For instance, AI chatbots can streamline initial job interviews, reducing manual screening hours and allowing HR personnel to focus on higher-level tasks. This change can revolutionize the overall recruitment process.
"Strategically planning and fostering a high-performance culture, while embracing AI, to navigate the dynamic and evolving business landscape."
~ Saket Dwivedi, CHRO, NU Living
2. Data-Driven Decision Making: Using data analytics to gain actionable insights into employee performance, attrition rates, or engagement levels. These metrics can inform strategic decisions, like revising training programs to address performance gaps. This approach ensures that actions are backed by solid data, not just hunches.
3. Employee Well-being: Comprehensive programs focusing on physical and mental health can boost employee morale, reduce absenteeism, and promote a healthier workplace culture. CHROs understand that an employee's well-being directly impacts their productivity.
"Prioritizing and creating awareness about emotional intelligence throughout the organization. Engaging the team to align with and achieve overall organizational goals. Establishing win-win compensation and benefits strategies."
~ Sonali Thakkar, VP HR, Woodfield Systems International
4. Upskilling and Reskilling: Rapid technological advancement is making some skills obsolete while creating demand for new ones. To keep their workforce relevant, CHROs are emphasizing continuous learning programs. By providing platforms for employees to learn new skills, companies can better adapt to industry changes and maintain a competitive edge.
5. Remote Work Culture: The rise of remote work presents new challenges and opportunities. To keep remote employees engaged, CHROs are implementing innovative virtual team-building activities and collaboration tools. They are rethinking traditional office practices to cultivate a productive and inclusive remote work culture.
6. Diversity and Inclusion: Diversity in the workforce encourages a broader range of ideas and perspectives. Using tools like unbiased AI hiring software reduces unconscious bias in recruitment and creates a more diverse workforce. A diverse workforce fosters innovation and better problem-solving.
7. Talent Acquisition: CHROs are prioritizing employer branding to attract the right talent. By showcasing a company's values, culture, and growth opportunities, they can appeal to potential employees that align with the company's mission and vision. This strategic move ensures the attraction and retention of top-tier talent.
"Drive strategies for the retention of critical talent needed for the company’s future growth.Leverage technology to drive employee connection, leading to enhanced levels of engagement, wellbeing, productivity, and collaboration."
~ Keerthi Kamasamudra, Head of HR, Stellapps
8. Leadership Development: Nurturing internal talent for leadership roles is more cost-effective than hiring external candidates. Prioritizing mentorship programs and leadership workshops helps identify and develop future leaders from their existing talent pool. This strategy also enhances employee loyalty and engagement.
9. Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): CHROs are driving CSR initiatives, knowing that they impact both company reputation and employee morale. Implementing sustainable practices like minimizing paper usage or promoting recycling can contribute to a healthier environment and show employees that their company cares about global issues.
10. Employee Experience: A positive employee experience impacts retention rates – focusing on enhancing every stage of the employee journey, from a welcoming onboarding process to providing avenues for growth and ensuring a respectful exit process. A good employee experience can turn employees into company ambassadors even post their tenure.
What makes a successful CHRO?
Being a CHRO is more than a title; it's a commitment to fostering a healthy, inclusive, and innovative workplace. These leaders are the heart and soul of an organization, driving change, setting trends, and, above all, championing their people.
But what are the core qualities that separate a good CHRO from a great one? Let's dive into the specifics!
1. Visionary Leadership: A great CHRO is a visionary who can foresee future workplace trends and prepare accordingly. They have a knack for spotting emerging skills gaps and potential roadblocks before they turn into issues. These leaders don't just react to changes - they anticipate them!
2. People-Centric Approach: Great CHROs place people at the center of their strategy. They understand that the company's success hinges on its employees' well-being and engagement.
3. Data Literacy: In a world driven by data, a successful CHRO has an analytical mind, capable of interpreting complex data and translating it into actionable strategies. They can detect patterns, make informed predictions, and make data-driven decisions.
4. Business Acumen: Great CHROs are strategic thinkers with deep business understanding. They are aware of the company's mission, goals, and the industry's competitive landscape. Their people strategies align with the business goals.
5. Emotional Intelligence: CHROs with high emotional intelligence can sense the pulse of the organization. They have the empathy to understand employees' needs, the assertiveness to voice concerns, and the resilience to manage stress.
6. Courageous Innovator: Innovation requires the courage to take risks and challenge the status quo. Successful CHROs are not afraid to experiment with new HR technologies or unconventional policies. They're the trendsetters!
Embrace change, set new trends, and lead with empathy
Start taking stock of your own HR practices. How are you integrating technology, harnessing data, and nurturing your talent? What can you do to improve employee well-being, diversity, and leadership development in your company?
Remember, each journey begins with a single step. Yours starts here, with the will to learn, adapt, and evolve. Let's lead the change we want to see in our workplaces - starting now!
