It has taken some time, but HR technology has become commonplace around the globe, revolutionizing the way startups and large companies operate. Through the rapid advancement of technology, talent acquisition teams are now better equipped than ever to recruit, retain, and support talented individuals.
Today, we will explore 10 of the hottest HR tech trends to watch for in 2023 that are improving workplace culture and business workflows. These include artificial intelligence technology, as well as human capital management systems, which have the potential to elevate organizations to a higher level. Join us as we take a deep dive into each of these trends and learn how they can benefit your business.
#1: Artificial Intelligence
The first trend that is transforming the way HR professionals work is the use of artificial intelligence (AI). These tools improve workflows by automating tasks and streamlining processes. For instance, talent acquisition managers are now employing AI-driven recruitment tools to find high-end talent more efficiently.
In today’s competitive job market, platforms like TurboHire and Skillate are helping talent acquisition managers sort through hundreds of applications that would take days to review. These platforms can scan resumes, identify key skills, and learn from an applicant’s professional experience to create a shortlist of the best suitable candidates. By shortening the recruitment process, TurboHire and Skillate allow HR professionals to focus on what matters most: the interview.
Another significant contribution of AI technology is its impact on the onboarding process. These tools offer new hires personalized training and development programs, allowing HR professionals to lighten their workload while boosting productivity and engagement among new employees.
#2: Employee Wellness and Engagement Technologies
Modern workplaces are increasingly adopting employee wellness and engagement technologies into the workplace, as they recognize the importance of employee well-being and satisfaction. Examples of these interventions include providing employees with Apple Watches to track their health and offering access to telehealth platforms to meet with psychotherapists to discuss mental health.
We recommend researching high-performing companies such as Deloitte’s “Greenhouse” program or Google’s “gPause” initiative to learn about the real-world applications of employee wellness programs. These strategies can help improve employee morale, increase productivity, and reduce turnover rates in your company.
#3: DEI Technologies
The next trend taking 2023 by storm involves Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) technologies. DEI is becoming increasingly important for talent acquisition managers, as it can help address underrepresentation, bias, and failure to hire the best candidate for the job.
For instance, Gap Inc. uses an AI-powered tool to identify unconscious bias in job postings, ensuring that job descriptions use gender-neutral language and avoid biased language. However, Gap Inc. is not alone in including DEI in its 2023 goals. Intel has also implemented diversity analytics tools to identify areas of underrepresentation and develop targeted recruitment and retention strategies.
With DEI becoming a significant focus of modern workplaces, talent acquisition managers play a crucial role in helping organizations identify and address areas of underrepresentation and bias. Bias training tools can help reduce unconscious bias in the workplace and lead to the hiring of well-rounded candidates who have the potential to contribute greatly to a business.
#4: VR and AR
Although Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technology have traditionally been utilized in areas such as healthcare, education, and entertainment, now they are gradually making their way into the HR industry. Training and development are significant areas where VR and AR have potential in HR. These technologies can create virtual training programs that simulate real-world situations, providing employees with practical experience in a safe and controlled environment.
STRIVR is a company that creates immersive VR to simulate real-life scenarios that employees may encounter in their jobs. For example, they offer a customer service training program allowing employees to interact with virtual customers and practice handling different situations, such as dealing with angry customers or resolving complex issues.
#5: Blockchain Technology
Although blockchain technology is often associated with cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, its potential applications extend far beyond finance. In recent years, blockchain has been explored in various other applications, including healthcare, logistics, and supply chain management. Now, the HR industry is jumping on the bandwagon.
One such use is for data privacy and security. By using blockchain, a secure and transparent record of employee data can be created, including personal information, employment history, and performance reviews. This helps prevent data breaches and ensures that employee data remains confidential and secure.
Several companies have already implemented blockchain technology in HR operations, such as Accenture’s “My Learning Assistant.” This blockchain-based platform enables employees to create a digital record of their learning and development activities.
With the increasing trend of blockchain technology in HR, there is no doubt that it will continue to transform the industry and provide new opportunities for businesses. It may be time to take note before your competitors take advantage of the opportunity.
#6: Gamification
Gamification is the integration of games or game-like elements into industry processes to motivate individuals to complete tasks. This trend has recently gained popularity in the talent acquisition industry, as it can be used to engage employees in training, recruitment, and performance management. By incorporating game-like elements such as rewards, points, and leaderboards, gamification makes these tasks more engaging and enjoyable.
One example of gamification in HR is Deloitte’s gamified recruitment platform called “The Cube.” This platform uses VR technology to simulate real-life work situations and assess a candidate’s skills and cognitive abilities. Another example is Starbucks’ gamified learning platform, “Starbucks Digital Academy,” which uses game-like elements such as points, badges, and leaderboards to motivate employees to complete training courses.
These gamification strategies not only make training more engaging but can also lead to an increase in retention. You can boost morale and productivity by showing employees that you care about fostering a positive and fun work environment. As a leader, it’s worth considering how gamification could be used in your organization to create a more engaging and rewarding workplace.
#7: Chatbots and Virtual Assistants
Chatbots and virtual assistants have emerged as a consequence of the rise in AI technology. These sophisticated computer programs interact with humans using natural language. In human resources, virtual assistants can automate routine tasks such as scheduling interviews, answering employee queries, and onboarding new employees, leading to more efficient business practices, saving time, and reducing the workload of HR staff.
A recent example is Mya, an AI-powered recruitment chatbot acquired by the company Stepstone. Mya has learned to screen resumes accurately, schedule interviews, and answer candidate queries. This chatbot also provides an enhanced candidate experience by offering immediate and personalized responses.
As these technologies continue to develop in 2023, HR professionals can expect chatbots and virtual assistants to be increasingly valuable tools in their day-to-day operations.
#8: HCM Solutions
Human Capital Management (HCM) solutions are software development tools that optimize an organization’s human resources department. These solutions offer a variety of features, such as payroll management, benefits administration, performance management, talent management, and more, which can help HR members create a unified company.
One company that has successfully implemented an HCM solution is Workday, a cloud-based HR management system. Workday offers a comprehensive understanding of employee data, allowing corporations to take control of their HR processes efficiently. The platform includes features such as time tracking, benefits administration, and performance management, all accessible through a user-friendly interface. Workday is changing the face of how human resource departments operate by providing a streamlined and centralized approach to HR management.
Another company that offers HCM solutions is SAP SuccessFactors. This platform also provides various HR management features, including performance and goal management, talent acquisition, and compensation management. SuccessFactors can offer a comprehensive solution for managing HR processes on both a micro and macro level, making it a popular choice for startups and large businesses. With these powerful tools at their disposal, talent acquisition teams can streamline their hiring processes and focus on more strategic initiatives.
#9: Predictive Analytics
Predictive analytics, a rapidly growing field of advanced analytics, harnesses data mining, machine learning, and AI to make predictions by analyzing past and current data. In 2023, predictive analytics is gaining traction as a powerful tool in HR, as it has the potential to forecast employee retention and performance.
Talent acquisition managers should pay attention to this benefit because predictive analytics can help them identify high-performing employees and predict which employees are likely to leave. This information allows them to develop targeted retention strategies to manage talent more effectively.
In addition to retention strategies, predictive analytics can assist with hiring decisions by identifying candidates most likely to succeed in a job interview and those most likely to excel in a particular role. By making data-driven hiring decisions, organizations can achieve better outcomes.
Several companies, including Hilton Worldwide and IBM, have already implemented predictive analytics in their HR operations with positive results. For example, Hilton Worldwide uses predictive analytics to identify employees who are at risk of leaving. In contrast, IBM uses it to identify high-potential employees who are likely to be promoted. By exploring case studies from these companies and others, talent acquisition managers can gain valuable insights and learn how to apply predictive analytics in their organizations.
#10: Cloud-Based HR Solutions
As we wrap up our list of the hottest tech trends to watch for in 2023, one trend that stands out is cloud-based HR solutions. These solutions, like HCM software, are gaining popularity in today’s modern workplace, and for a good reason.
One key advantage of cloud-based HR solutions is their ability to provide remote access throughout an organization, giving employees from anywhere in the world access to HR information. This feature makes it easier for them to manage their private portal to request time off, update personal details, and access company policies.
Another significant benefit of this trend is the emphasis on data security. Cloud-based platforms offer multiple layers of security, including data encryption, access controls, and disaster recovery protocols, ensuring that employee data remains safe and secure, even during a cybersecurity attack.
The advantages of cloud-based HR solutions are numerous, which top tech companies like Workday, ADP, and Oracle HCM Cloud are taking advantage of. With each solution offering its unique features, the potential for leveraging this trend in 2023 is limitless.