What is the Future of HR?

And what are the Top HR Technology Trends & Examples?

Written by Beatrice Speck

Introduction to the future of HR:

The world of Human Resources (HR) is going through some major changes, driven by groundbreaking new technological trends and shifting workplace dynamics. HR professionals are at the forefront of this evolution, harnessing tech tools and processes to shape the future of work. In this article, we'll delve into the current Top HR Tech Trends, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Gamification, Augmented Reality (AR), Employee Experience (EX), and Cloud-Based Employee Listening tools, which are set to shake things up for HR practices and contribute to organisational success.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in HR:

According to the McKinsey Global Survey report, key findings showed that over 30% of respondents are already using AI technology in their organisation, and 40% of those already using AI are expecting more investment in AI technology.

An area where Artificial Intelligence is growing in organisations, is within HR.

AI-powered tools are making the recruitment process easier by automating repetitive tasks, analysing CVs, and even conducting initial candidate interviews.

Predictive analytics helps in identifying high-performing employees and predicting attrition, enabling HR to take proactive measures.

AI chatbots are also enhancing employee engagement by providing instant responses to queries and automating HR-related tasks, making HR processes more efficient and user-friendly.

A great example of an AI tool used in HR is Workable, a platform that offers support for recruiters. It streamlines the hiring process with features like automated candidate screening, interview scheduling, and bias-free job posting to 200+ job sites. This platform optimises every stage of recruitment, saving you time and effort.

Gamification for Better Employee Experiences:

Gamification is turning work into a game, and everyone's loving it.

This approach fosters employee engagement, learning, and performance improvement.

HR departments are using gamification to create interactive onboarding programs, training modules, and performance evaluations.

It enhances the overall employee experience and encourages employees to achieve their goals while having fun.

Amazon's warehouses feature a voluntary game for employees. They can control their workload individually or as a team, earning virtual prizes. This approach promotes a positive work environment without exerting undue pressure on employees.

Employee Listening Tools for a Happier Workplace:

Listening to employees has never been more critical, therefore by implementing employee listening tools such as workplace wellbeing and employee engagement survey platform Anova, organisations can easily gain deeper insights into their workforce's needs, concerns, and aspirations.

Anova, a cloud-based SaaS Software, for instance, goes beyond traditional survey platforms, offering a comprehensive suite of features designed to delve deeper into the intricacies of employee experiences.

With user-friendly custom surveys, sentiment analysis, and instant results, it promotes open communication and transparency.

When employees see their opinions matter, they become more engaged and motivated, creating a stronger team.

Moreover, employee listening tools like Anova enable organisations to tailor their strategies and initiatives to address specific pain points or areas requiring improvement.

Whether it's enhancing workplace wellbeing, boosting employee engagement, or refining HR policies, the insights garnered from these tools guide informed decision-making and drive positive change.

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Learning (VR) for Employees:

Augmented Reality is not just for gaming and entertainment; it's also gaining ground in HR.

AR tools enable immersive and interactive employee training experiences, especially for industries requiring hands-on skills.

Imagine a scenario where employees can practice equipment maintenance or safety procedures in a virtual environment, reducing risks and costs associated with on-site training.

PwC released findings from their recent study, Seeing is Believing, referencing how XR (Extended Reality) can teach soft skills better than old-school methods. The post-survey feedback stated that 78% of participants preferred ‘v-learning’ to traditional learning methods such as ‘classroom learning’. XR training has tons of perks, like saving money, unlimited practice, safety, and progress tracking.

Employee Self-Support Portals:

These portals are like the HR Google for employees.

Employee self-service portals offer direct access to HR resources, including benefits, payroll, and company policies.

These portals ease the workload on HR teams while enabling employees to access essential information without the need for HR assistance.

Leading solutions like BambooHR serve as centralized HCM (Human Capital Management) platforms. They provide employees access to and management of HR-related information, depending on their permissions.

HR Tech for Flexible and Hybrid Work:

Flexibility in the workplace, driven by the pandemic, is now a necessity.

HR tech is essential for remote team management, work-life balance, and productivity. It offers tools for collaboration, communication, and performance tracking, attracting and retaining talent with flexible work options.

Another example of a technology system that promotes flexible and hybrid working is Slack. Beyond a messaging platform, it's promotes productivity, enabling seamless communication, file sharing, and app integration.

So, if your company uses tools like Slack or other business communication apps, congrats, you've already taken a step into the world of HR innovation. But don't stop there; there's a lot more to explore!

Conclusion:

HR is evolving, and these HR tech trends are a must to stay ahead. AI, Gamification, AR, Employee Experience, and Employee Listening tools are changing how we work.

By jumping on board with these tech trends and adapting HR strategies, companies can create an engaged, efficient, and flexible workforce, which is the recipe for success in the ever-changing future of HR.

To learn more about how Anova can help with navigating the future of HR tech trends, helping you listen to your employees, click here and book a quick demo.