In this thought-provoking episode, Mel, Michelle, and Erika discuss the intersection of human resources (HR) and artificial intelligence (AI), exploring the implications, opportunities, and challenges that HR professionals face in the era of AI-driven automation and decision-making. As organizations globally adopt AI technologies to enhance hiring processes and operational efficiency, the trio sheds light on the necessity for HR to evolve, the fears surrounding job replacement, and the critical need for strategic, informed decision-making within HR departments.

Episode Highlights:

• AI in Hiring: Reflection on the widespread use of automation and AI in hiring processes among Fortune 500 companies, including robot avatars and resume scanning algorithms.
• The HR Fear Factor: Erika discusses the anxiety within HR communities about AI potentially replacing human jobs, highlighting a general lack of analytics and technology training within traditional HR roles.
• The Need for HR Upskilling: Both Erika and Michelle emphasize the urgency for HR professionals to acquire technology and analytics skills, not only for job security but also to ensure they can contribute strategically to organizational growth and ethics in AI usage.
• Generative AI and Bias Concerns: The conversation touches on the risks associated with generative AI, such as biased algorithms influencing hiring decisions, underscoring the importance of knowledge and ethical considerations in AI deployment.
• Strategic Role of HR in AI Era: Michelle stresses the potential for HR to act as a conduit for upskilling the broader organization in AI literacy, while also advocating for HR itself to undergo significant upskilling.
• Legal and Ethical Implications: Erika warns of the increasing likelihood of lawsuits arising from misapplications of AI in HR, pointing to a crucial need for bespoke, organization-specific AI solutions to mitigate risk.
• Cultural and Organizational Transformation: The discussion extends to the role of HR in driving cultural and organizational change, advocating for a transformational approach to HR that leverages AI for strategic advantage rather than mere cost-cutting.

Leadership Call to Action

• For HR Professionals: Embrace technology and analytics training. Engage with AI tools critically and ethically. Innovate in your role to become a strategic partner in your organization.
• For Organizations: Invest in upskilling HR teams. Consider the development of bespoke AI solutions that align with company policies and ethical standards. Promote a culture of continuous learning and adaptation.

Lead to Soar is a global online network for businesswomen, a podcast, and we host live-streaming and in person events to help women have a career that soars! The podcast is hosted by Mel Butcher (melbutcher.com) and Michelle Redfern (michelleredfern.com)

Lead to Soar is a podcast for ambitious women and the leaders who support them. Hosted by Michelle Redfern and Mel Butcher, it delivers evidence-based, practical advice on leadership, career progression, and closing the gender gap. Join the Lead to Soar Network at leadtosoar.network or get Michelle’s book The Leadership Compass at michelleredfern.com/book.

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