HR’s human touch: Indispensable in the AI world

The rise of AI is reshaping the business landscape, and the HR function is no exception. As automation takes over routine tasks, the demand for uniquely human skills is on the rise.

Armin Hopp, Founder of Speexx and President of the International Council on Badges and Credentials (ICoBC), highlighted the critical role of HR and learning and development (L&D) in preparing professionals for the AI era during his session, Navigating AI: Vision and Strategy for L&D in the Next Decade, at Thailand HR TECH 2024 earlier this month.

“The time for L&D is now,” Hopp declared. “As AI levels the technological playing field, human skills will become a differentiator.” He believes that fostering empathy, critical thinking, and adaptative communication will be paramount for HR professionals. Additionally, data literacy will be essential for making informed decisions and enhancing employee experiences.

To equip HR professionals with the necessary skills for the future, L&D programmes must evolve. Hopp suggested integrating training modules that cover empathetic leadership, advanced data analytics, and AI tool utilisation. However, he stressed that theoretical knowledge alone is insufficient, and told HRM Asia, “We need experiential learning where professionals can practice these skills in real-world scenarios and build behaviors beyond using tools. A fool with a tool is still a fool.”

Fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability is essential, given the rapid pace of technological advancement. “The time for transformative learning is now and investing in these forward-thinking L&D strategies is essential,” Hopp asserted.

While AI offers significant advantages, there is a concern that it might overshadow human interaction in the learning process. Hopp addressed this by emphasising the importance of balance. “AI offers many advantages, but there’s a valid concern that it might replace human interaction in learning. The key here is balance,” he explained.

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HR can leverage AI to handle routine, repetitive tasks, such as basic training modules or data analysis, freeing up time for more personalised, human-led development. “AI can personalise learning paths based on individual needs and progress, but it should be coupled with mentorship and coaching from experienced professionals. This way, we get the best of both worlds: the efficiency and customisation of AI and the empathy and nuanced understanding of human mentors,” Hopp said.

To ensure that L&D programmes remain effective and enriching, they must emphasise collaboration, communication, and emotional intelligence—areas where human interaction is irreplaceable. “By combining AI’s capabilities with our uniquely human skills, we can create a more effective and enriching learning environment,” Hopp concluded.