February 10, 2024

Unlocking HR's Potential: Navigating Talent Acquisition, Transformation, and Skills Revolution with Steve O'Brien

45 minutes

Summary

In this conversation, Steve O'Brien, Senior Vice President of People Solutions at Syneos Health, discusses the difference between talent acquisition and HR, the target operating model transformation, and programs that went well and didn't go well. He also shares advice for someone starting in the talent game and discusses the characteristics of successful interactions with colleagues and leaders. Additionally, he talks about his reading habits and the importance of methodical thinking. In this conversation, Steve O'Brien discusses his reading habits, the skills revolution in HR, and the difference between skills and competencies.

Takeaways

Talent acquisition is a tactical function focused on delivering concrete results, while HR encompasses both tactical and strategic elements.

A target operating model transformation can introduce flexibility and agility into HR, allowing for rapid response to customer needs.

Successful programs often involve informal agreements and a shared vision of what could be true, even if it can't be proven.

Starting in staffing and gaining experience on the supplier side can provide valuable skills and a deep understanding of recruiting fundamentals.

Interactions with colleagues and leaders should involve cooperation, vision casting, and a focus on what can be achieved rather than fault finding.

Methodical thinking and a philosophical background can contribute to effective argumentation and democratic accessibility of ideas. Diversify your reading habits by including both fiction and nonfiction books.

The skills revolution in HR is about moving away from job titles and career paths and focusing on the unique collection of skills that individuals possess.

Skills should inform decision-making in hiring, promotion, and firing.

Skills should be integrated throughout the entire organization to have a real impact.

Skills should not be seen as a reductive view of talent, but rather as a way to enhance decision-making and understanding of individuals.

Three key takeaways from Steve's career: commit to personal excellence, actively seek tough feedback, and invest in continuous learning.

Connect with WRKdefined on your favorite social network

Share your brand across the WRKdefined Podcast Network

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:50 Difference Between Talent Acquisition and HR

06:15 Target Operating Model Transformation

09:52 Programs that Went Well and Didn't Go Well

19:45 Advice for Someone Starting in the Talent Game

25:02 Starting in Staffing and Moving to Corporate Recruiting

29:26 Characteristics of Successful Interactions

33:53 Thriving with Leaders Above

35:13 Philosophy and Methodical Thinking

35:47 Reading Habits

35:54 Reading Habits

37:09 Skills Revolution

39:08 Skills vs Competencies

40:08 Key Takeaways

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

...more

View all episodes

By WRKdefined