As many people worry that artificial intelligence will make their jobs obsolete, the Human Resources industry is welcoming these technological advances. More than half (55 percent) of Human Resources managers believe artificial intelligence (AI) and automation will become a regular part of HR in the next five years according to a survey by CareerBuilder.
“There are certain aspects of HR that are transactional in nature, such as how we capture candidate and employee information and maintain those records and reports. Automation is key in finding efficiencies in those processes,” Rosemary Haefner, chief human resources officer for CareerBuilder, said in a press release.
“What robots and AI can’t replace, however, is the human element of HR that shapes the company culture, provides an environment for employees built on IQ and EQ, works hand in hand with company leaders to meet business goals and ensures employees have the training and support to thrive. You need living, dynamic people who can navigate the ‘gray’ to do that, not robots that can quickly work through black and white.”
While most HR professionals don’t think AI will make their jobs obsolete, 35 percent says the thought of AI in HR makes them nervous.
Without Automation, Time and Productivity are Lost
Most of the HR managers surveyed say that a lack of automation in their jobs has caused them to lose an average of 14 hours a week. Twenty-eight percent say they waste 20 hours or more and 11 percent say they give up 30 hours or more.
HR managers reported that a lack of automation at their jobs has resulted in:
- Lower productivity: 41 percent
- More errors: 40 percent
- Higher costs: 35 percent
- Poor candidate experience: 18 percent
- Poor employee experience: 17 percent
- Less engagement: 17 percent
- Poor hiring manager experience: 11 percent
Some HR functions already automated
Though the HR industry is a long way from becoming fully automated, here is a breakdown of HR functions that are fully automated, partially automated or not automated:
| HR Function | Fully Automated | Partially Automated | Not Automated |
|---|---|---|---|
| Payroll | 50% | 42% | 7% |
| Background checks/drug testing | 39% | 35% | 21% |
| Applicant tracking | 38% | 35% | 21% |
| Benefits administration | 34% | 49% | 15% |
| Distributing job postings to different websites | 30% | 36% | 28% |
| Compliance | 25% | 45% | 27% |
| Performance management | 24% | 38% | 33% |
| Sourcing job candidates | 20% | 47% | 28% |
| Predictive Assessments | 20% | 24% | 25% |
| Training | 18% | 47% | 28% |
| Employee Referrals | 16% | 29% | 45% |
| Onboarding | 15% | 56% | 26% |
Automation not the only way to save time
According to the survey, 21 percent say background checks are not automated. Twenty-one percent also state that applicant tracking isn’t automated. Lack of automation for these HR functions can lead to lost productivity. Rather than risk losing your valuable time, partner with Morgan Hunter for your next talent search. We can take care of things like applicant tracking and background checks so you can focus on your day-to-day. We have helped thousands of companies in the Kansas City area find high-performing employees for their open positions. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your organization find talent.
