HR leaders need to upskill to cope with demands of the post COVID workforce

As time progresses, HR related technology and knowledge are making rapid advancements. The role of an HR professional has become even more vital and it’s time they begin to really hone their skills to remain relevant and improve competency.

A report from a professional services network suggests, nearly 42 percent of business leaders believe HR teams are just getting by even though they understand their value in helping an organisation drive performance and conveniently manage human resources.

HR teams are responsible for many critical operations within an organisation, ranging from recruitment to payroll and well-being management of employees. That is why it is important for them to continuously develop their skills to help maintain and progress their organisation’s performance.

The pandemic has enabled HR professionals to think out of the box in regards to adjusting to new work models and employee requirements.

Digital tools are swiftly making their way into basic HR functions, that is why it is imperative for HR officials to be proficient in using these systems. A survey revealed 56 percent of companies are actively redesigning their HR processes and programs to integrate digital HR tools. Digital literacy has become an incredibly important skill for HR heads as organisations see digital platforms as long term sustainable initiatives.

Having a tech savvy HR department can help leverage the tech enabled opportunities and understand how it impacts the growth of organisations.

The pandemic highlighted the adverse state of employee mental health. As a result HR departments in collaboration with their organisations had to find ways to address the stigma associated with mental health and how it’s linked to inclusion, equity and diversity. HR leaders have to educate themselves well on the matter and in turn formulate a plan to do the same to their employees. If an HR head is not well-versed in the subject it can lead to prejudiced or negative reactions. Teaching employees about the basics of mental health and dispel the myths associated with the same begin with HR.

COVID-19 also changed the demands and expectations of the Gen Z workforce. The new generation wants instant gratification in the workplace. They want to create opportunities to make an impact with the work they’re doing rather than solely strive for a hefty paycheck. This means HR departments will have to be quick to cater to the needs of the new age workforce if they have hopes on retaining them over a long period of time.