NAVIGATING THE NEW LANDSCAPE: TOP HR CHALLENGES FOR 2024

HR Professionals Grapple with AI and Hybrid Work at SAP’s HR Connect Event

The top challenges facing HR professionals in 2024 were the focus of discussions at SAP’s HR Connect event held today in Johannesburg. The key takeaways highlighted the significant impact of:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): HR professionals are navigating how to integrate AI effectively while ensuring ethical practices and maintaining the human element in HR processes.
• Hybrid Work Models: The shift towards hybrid work environments requires HR to develop strategies to foster company culture, support employee well-being, and ensure seamless communication and collaboration across physical and remote teams.

Kholiwe Makhohliso, the managing director for Southern Africa at SAP, says business and HR leaders are grappling with the complexities of a new world of work shaped by hybrid models and the impact of intelligent technologies.

The Rise of AI in HR:

• A global survey by SAP revealed that only a third of organizations are proactively adopting AI technologies in HR.
• Common HR applications for AI include recruiting, training, and employee engagement.
• However, implementing AI effectively remains a top challenge for HR professionals.

The Benefits of AI in HR:

• According to SAP, AI can revolutionize HR by:
  • Streamlining operations
  • Enhancing decision-making
  • Improving employee experiences
• AI frees HR professionals from routine tasks, allowing them to focus on strategy and employee experience.
• Data-driven insights from AI can guide workforce planning, identify skill gaps, and predict employee turnover.
• AI can also help mitigate bias and promote diversity and inclusion.

Practical Applications of AI in HR:

• AI can automate tasks like CV screening and initial candidate interactions through chatbots.
• This reduces hiring times and improves candidate experiences.
• AI’s predictive capabilities can help businesses anticipate and shape workplace trends to optimize talent management and retention.

The Future of HR:

• The integration of AI in HR isn’t just about changing current practices but enabling the future of work.
• Collaboration between human expertise and technology will create more adaptable, innovative, and thriving workplaces.

Source: Techeconomy