While Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming more and more ingrained in our daily life, many HR professionals have reservations about utilising AI systems and chatbots such as ChatGPT to their full potential.

However, it’s not overly surprising. While AI seems like the perfect tool for checking code or creating advertising images, when you’re dealing with people’s livelihoods on a daily basis, there’s a natural reluctance to lose that personal touch. And the numbers back this up, with a recent survey by Gartner finding that only 5% of HR leaders report that their department has implemented AI.

A telling stat nonetheless is that 84% of these HR leaders who were surveyed by Gartner believe that using AI will make existing HR activities more productive, while two-thirds think it will eliminate redundant HR activities.

So, as an HR professional, how do you strike a balance between automation and human interaction, and still provide a personal touch to sensitive and nuanced issues? It comes down to how you use AI, what you use it for, and how you enhance it with human expertise.

How can AI be utilised in HR?

The best way to look at AI is as a starting point. When writing a new policy, internal communication piece or procedural document, many of us struggle with that blank piece of paper. AI can be used as a starting point, such as the key points to cover, a summary of relevant legislation, or a template structure.

AI could also be used for:

• –  Resume screening and candidate matching
• –  Predictive analytics for recruitment and workforce planning
• –  Data collection automation
• –  Personalised training and development programs

 

While there are many potential applications of AI in the HR realm, it’s important to understand that the output you receive will be general in nature and needs to be built upon to be of value to your organisation. AI is very black and white, and when you’re dealing with people, you need that human touch to look after those grey areas. You also need to consider issues of data privacy and security before inputting any company information into an AI system or chatbot.

The bottom line

AI is a powerful tool that shouldn’t be ignored. However, there needs to be a balance between technology and human expertise to achieve the best outcomes for both employees and the organisation.