Embracing AI in HR? Take One Step Back Then Two Steps Forward

Cautious optimism

 
 
This was the core of my talk at the Philippines HR Group (PHILHRG INC.) Summit about AI in HR.
 
Despite the advantages I gained from being in the forefront of the social web revolution at the start of the millennium – including an executive role, economic opportunities, and prestigious awards – I stressed the importance of thoughtful implementation when it comes to new tools.
 

 
When embracing AI in HR, my advice is simple: take a step back to assess your organization’s challenges before taking two steps forward with a new tool.
 
 
Here’s how to apply this principle:
 
 
1. Pain points persist, tools evolve:
All things continue the way they have been since the beginning. What has happened will happen again; there is nothing new here on earth. – Ecclesiastes 1:9 (NCV).
 
When I started my HR journey in the early ’90s, the top three pain points in HR, then called Personnel, were (1) Payroll, (2) Retention, and (3) Recruitment. The fundamental challenges in HR have remained consistent over the years, AI is simply a new instrument to tackle these age-old problems.
 
 
2. The tools are only as good as the user.
Using a dull ax requires great strength, so sharpen the blade. That’s the value of wisdom; it helps you succeed.- Ecclesiastes 10:10 (NLT)
 
One of my hobbies to de-stress is Mobile Photography. One thing I learned from fellow hobbyists is that a powerful camera doesn’t guarantee a good photo; a skilled photographer does. Similarly, AI’s return on investment hinges on its users’ capabilities.
 
 
3. Prepare the organization, not just the people.
And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. For the wine would burst the wineskins, and the wine and the skins would both be lost. New wine calls for new wineskins. – Mark 2:22 (NLT)
 
Integrating new technology requires adapting frameworks, processes, and policies to address potential problems brought about by the new toy. Don’t expect new wine to fit in old wineskins.
 
 
4. Bring back humanity in HR
Know the state of your flocks, and put your heart into caring for your herds, for riches don’t last forever, and the crown might not be passed to the next generation. Proverbs 27:23-24 (NLT)
 
We live in an interesting time where HR professionals are trying hard to emulate AI. Empathy is our distinctive edge over machines. HR professionals who can balance AI’s strengths with compassion will thrive in the future.
 
 
Embracing AI in HR requires thoughtful preparation and a focus on the human element. By taking one step back to assess and adapt, we can ensure two steps forward towards a more efficient and compassionate future.