In a compelling Open Innovator session titled “AI in HR,” experts from the human resources field gathered to discuss the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on HR practices.
The event showcased the perspectives of distinguished HR leaders, including Dr. Pradyumna Pandey, Sunaina K Kaul, Vikas Singh Baghel, Harshit Srivastava, and Smriti Jain, all of whom are paving the way for a tech-driven future in HR. The session began with an introduction by Tara, an AI assistant, who welcomed attendees to explore how AI is reshaping candidate engagement, talent management, and recruitment processes.
The discussion highlighted significant statistics indicating that AI could reduce hiring time by up to 75% and enhance candidate engagement by as much as 50%. Dr. Pradyumna Pandey, manufacturing HR head at Hero MotoCorp, emphasized the role of AI in building efficient workforces, while Sunaina K Kaul, director of global employee relations at Qualcomm, showcased AI’s ability to bridge cultural gaps in a global workforce. Vikas Singh Baghel, associate director of HR at HCL Tech, shared insights on transforming talent management by leveraging data for actionable insights, positioning the panelists as the “Fantastic Five” in the AI HR landscape.
Despite the enthusiasm for AI, the panelists stressed the importance of maintaining a human touch in HR. Dr. Pandey highlighted that while technology can enhance efficiencies, it cannot replicate the genuine connections vital for employee relations. He advocated for a balanced approach where AI handles data-driven tasks, allowing HR professionals to focus on interpersonal interactions.
The panel also explored the ethical implications of using AI in HR, particularly in recruitment. Chatbots were discussed as tools for personalizing the candidate experience, streamlining initial assessments, and addressing employee queries in real time. Harshit Srivastava, talent acquisition leader at Brightly Software, shared that these innovations have significantly improved employee engagement and operational efficiency.
As the session progressed, the conversation shifted to future trends in HR. The speakers noted a growing expectation for HR functions to influence both top and bottom lines of businesses. They emphasized the necessity for HR to adapt to external trends using AI while ensuring human oversight in critical areas such as employee well-being and job satisfaction.
Innovative startups like Expertia AI, Zimyo, and Evalgator showcased their AI-driven solutions aimed at automating various HR processes, from recruitment to talent assessment. These platforms aim to streamline operations, allowing HR teams to focus on strategic initiatives.
The session concluded with an acknowledgment of the vital role empathy plays in HR practices, especially as soft skills become increasingly valuable. Sunaina K Kaul pointed out that empathy is essential for building meaningful relationships in the workplace, underscoring the need for HR professionals to blend technology with human insight.
