Getting started with AI in HR

Feeling overwhelmed by AI in HR? You're not alone. This practical guide breaks down how to start your AI journey, from cultivating curiosity to implementing your first AI tool. Let's make AI work for you, not the other way around.

Demystifying AI in HR: Your roadmap to getting started

Artificial Intelligence in HR isn't just a fad - it's quickly becoming an integral part of our everyday work and the way of the future. But for many HR professionals, particularly those in smaller organisations or at the beginning of their AI journey, it can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? How do you ensure you're using AI effectively and ethically?

Don't worry - we've got you covered. Here's your practical guide to getting started with AI in HR, based on the insights from industry leaders collated during our webinar: AI in HR

The urgency of AI adoption

"AI is here. If anyone's thinking that it's a technology of the future and we have time to not act, you're wrong," emphasises Michael Kim, Head of HR at Spotify. This sentiment underscores the critical need for HR departments to engage with AI technologies now.

However, Kim also reassures those just beginning their AI journey: "As long as you're moving forward and doing something, you're moving." The key is to start taking steps, regardless of your current AI maturity level.

1. Cultivate curiosity about AI

First things first - don't bury your head in the sand when it comes to AI. As Merridy Thomas, Director at The Next Step, pointed out, "AI won't take your job, but people with AI skills will."

What you might do:

• Set aside time each week to read about AI developments in HR.
• Join professional networks or online forums where you can discuss AI applications with peers.
• Attend webinars and conferences focused on AI in HR.

2. Audit your current HR processes

Before jumping into AI implementation, take a fresh look at your existing processes. Anne Constantiou from Accenture suggests breaking down traditional HR roles into individual tasks and identifying areas ripe for AI assistance.

“AI can be daunting and complex,” she notes, “but just have a play. Look at roles and consider what consumable AI might be able to do some of those more menial tasks.”

What you might do:

• Deconstruct traditional HR roles into their component tasks, then identify areas where AI could provide significant support or innovation.
• For each process, identify potential productivity gains, efficiency improvements, or other benefits that AI implementation could bring.

3. Explore AI capabilities in existing tools

You might already have AI at your fingertips. Vernon Griffith from Anglicare advises, "If you look at the technology you have, there are probably hidden nuggets of AI within there that you can start to tap into and explore."

What you might do:

• Review the features of your current HR software.
• Schedule a call with your vendors to understand any AI functionalities you might not be utilising.
• Research how other organisations in your industry are using publicly available AI tools like ChatGPT.

4. Start with a pilot project

Choose one area to start your AI implementation. This could be using AI for initial resume screening, chatbots for answering common HR queries, or AI-powered analytics for workforce planning.

What you might do:

• Select one process for your AI pilot.
• Set clear objectives and metrics to measure its success.
• Start small and learn from the experience before scaling up.
• Ensure your pilot aligns with enterprise-wide AI policies and plans

5. Keep it human-centred

Humans should form the backbone of every AI initiative that HR undertakes. Michael Kim from Spotify pointed out that HR professionals have been "handcuffed to laptops for too long." The goal of AI implementation should be to free up time for more meaningful human interactions.

What you might do:

• For each AI initiative, clearly define how it will allow HR to be more "human" and improve employee interactions.
• Use AI to handle administrative tasks so that HR can focus on building relationships and enhancing the employee experience.
• Map out what could be done with the time saved if AI took over these tasks.

6. Implement robust change management

Successful AI implementation is as much about managing change as it is about technology. Be transparent about how AI is being used and how it benefits both the organisation and employees.

What you might do:

• Prepare a comprehensive change management plan.
• Develop a communication strategy to introduce AI initiatives to employees, addressing common concerns and providing regular updates on progress and impact.

7. Invest in upskilling

Ensure your team has the skills to work effectively with AI tools. This doesn't mean everyone needs to become a data scientist, but they should understand AI basics and how to interpret AI-generated insights.

What you might do:

• Organise AI literacy training for your HR team.
• Play, read, experiment and learn.
• Consider partnering with local universities or online platforms offering AI courses tailored for HR professionals.
• Develop a long-term skill development plan for your workforce, focusing on skills that complement AI, such as critical thinking and emotional intelligence.

8. Stay true to your values

As you implement AI, ensure it aligns with your organisational culture and values. AI should enhance your HR practices, not fundamentally change who you are as an organisation.

What you might do:

• Develop an AI ethics framework for your HR department.
• Regularly review AI initiatives to ensure they align with your organisation's values and culture.

Good luck on your AI journey!

Remember, starting your AI journey doesn't have to be daunting. Take it one step at a time, stay curious, and keep learning. As Michael Kim from Spotify said, "As long as you're moving forward and doing something, you're moving."

For additional insights, check out our article on AI in HR: Insights from Industry Leaders.

By following these practical steps, you'll be well on your way to harnessing the power of AI in your HR function, driving efficiency while keeping the focus on enhancing the employee experience. The future of HR is here - and with the right approach, it's an exciting place to be.

How we can help?

Do you need additional capacity within your team to support AI adoption and change management? We can assist with temporary and permanent staffing needs.

Or, if you would like to build your HR teams capability, then we can assist with high-level consultancy as well as bespoke HR capability development programs. Let us know what you need and we'll tailor a solution to assist in taking you further on your AI in HR journey.