HR BYTES NEWSLETTER
October 2023
As the calendar turns to October, it's time to fuel our HR engines for another thrilling month. Join us in our journey to uncover the freshest perspectives, embrace best practices, and blaze new trails in HR Tech. Let's make this October an unforgettable chapter in our HR adventures.
Fall Conference Season is here! What conferences are you attending this Season? Our Newsletter Team looks forward to this month's HR Technology Conference and Expo in Las Vegas! If you’re there, stop by Booth #314AO in the Startup Pavilion to chime in on the “most interesting thing in HR Tech” on the live stream of our HR Bytes podcast!
HR Bytes Beyond Borders: Exploring Global HR News
UK lags behind the US on AI adoption at work
UK office workers use AI less than Americans. Only 29% in the UK use it weekly, while 46% do in the US. Many UK workers worry they'll seem lazy if they use AI. American companies are better at providing AI training (22% vs. 13%). HR leaders should help employees adapt to AI, focusing on clear communication and addressing concerns. It's crucial to have policies on data and privacy. Effective AI use can boost creativity and productivity in the workplace.
Drinks company in Poland appoints AI robot as 'experimental' CEO
In a surprising move, Dictador, a well-known drinks company in Poland, has appointed an AI robot named 'Mika' as its experimental CEO. Mika's role involves overseeing the company's ventures into unique collectibles, communication, and strategic planning. This unconventional decision has sparked concerns among some employees about the potential impact of AI on job markets and industry leadership.
Indeed's AI At Work Report finds that GenAI will impact almost every job in America.
66% of jobs considered highly or moderately exposed to GenAI, according to a new study led by Indeed's economic research team.
Additional Key Findings from Indeed’s AI At Work Report:
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About 1 in 5 jobs on Indeed (19.8%) are highly exposed to GenAI
- Nearly half of jobs on Indeed (45.7%) have moderate exposure to GenAI.
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Approximately 1 in 3 jobs on Indeed (34.6%) have low or minimal exposure to GenAI.
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Jobs in software development have the highest potential for GenAI impact, with GenAI excelling in 95% of the skills required.
HR Bytes Across the States: Exploring National and Local HR News
Senators Propose Bipartisan Framework to Regulate AI
A bipartisan group of senators has proposed a framework to regulate artificial intelligence (AI). The framework would require AI systems to be transparent and safe and would establish ethical guidelines for their development and use. The framework would also create a new office within the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to oversee the development of AI standards. The proposed framework is a significant step forward in the effort to regulate AI. It is important to ensure that AI systems are developed and used in a responsible way, and this framework provides a good starting point for doing so.
What are your thoughts on Walmart's new AI tool?
Bank of America Bumps Up Minimum Wage
Bank of America is raising the minimum wage for its U.S. employees to $23 an hour, starting in October. This is part of the bank's plan to increase hourly pay to $25 by 2025. The move is seen as a way to attract and keep talented employees and make Bank of America an appealing place to work. The new minimum wage is much higher than the federal minimum wage, which is $7.25 per hour. Many states and cities have already set higher minimum wages. Raising the federal minimum wage has been a topic of debate, with many employers supporting the idea to help retain workers and address the rising cost of living.
HR Bytes Community Corner
Share Your HR Tips & Tricks
It’s time for a Tech Tune-Up!
October is the perfect month to give your HR tech stack a little TLC. Just like you wouldn't skip a car tune-up, our HR systems deserve some attention, too.
Here's why it's exciting:
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Efficiency Overhaul: Consider it a turbocharger for our HR processes. We're diving into our tech toolbox to make everything smoother, faster, and more efficient. No more unnecessary paperwork or delays.
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User-Friendly Vibes: Imagine tech as easy to use as your favorite smartphone app. We're all about improving the user experience. Our HR tech should be a breeze, not a headache.
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Supercharged Insights: We'll have access to more data and analytics with updated technology. It's like turning on the headlights in the dark – we'll see everything clearly and make better decisions.
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Paperless Power: Going green! Less paper, less clutter, and a smaller environmental footprint. It's a win-win.
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Seamless Employee Interaction:We're enhancing how employees interact with HR. Think of it as a smoother ride for employees seeking information, support, or making requests.
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Futuristic HR: The future is here, and we're embracing it. Upgraded technology means staying ahead and remaining competitive in the HR landscape.
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Elevated HR Team: With streamlined tech, our HR team can focus on what truly matters – supporting our employees and helping our organization grow.
So, prepare for an HR Tech makeover this October, where you are not just updating systems but upgrading your HR experience. Tune up for a more efficient and user-friendly journey ahead!
We'd love to hear from you!
Do you have an AI and/or Chatbot Policy in your workplace?
SHRM’s Chatbot Usage Policy provides a good start to crafting one.
Please share your AI and/or Chatbot Policy. Connect with us at [info [at] hrgeckos dot com]
Join the HR Bytes Community to share, learn, and grow! Look for us on LinkedIn and Facebook (search for HR Bytes)
Tune in to the HR Bytes Podcast
For more HR Tech insights, visit our Insights page
Call for Contributions
What’s one #HRTech topic you’d like to learn more about?
What #worktech initiatives have been working for you over the past year?
HR Bytes Podcast and Newsletter seeks contributors for our byte-sized Work Tech insights. If you’d like to write short blurbs on #HRTech #FutureofWork and related topics, please email us at [info [at] hrgeckos dot com] or connect on Social. Thank you!
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HR Bytes Digest
Must Read HR Tech Articles
Taking a Page from Student Use Cases for AI
Harvard Business Review highlights how guidance initially designed for students can be effectively applied to HR, particularly in workplace training and development. These principles, originally tailored for students, can serve as a valuable framework for HR professionals to harness the potential of AI and enhance the training and development initiatives within organizations.
Here's the breakdown
1. The HR Connection: For HR experts, this AI wave isn't just for classrooms. It's a game-changer for workforce development and training. AI can provide feedback and create personalized learning experiences for employees.
2. Ethics Matter: As you dive into the AI world, remember ethics. AI can carry biases and privacy matters. Be responsible when implementing AI tools in HR contexts.
3. Stay in the Know: The AI world keeps evolving. HR professionals should keep their finger on the pulse of AI developments to boost talent development and management. In a nutshell, AI isn't just a tool; it's a superpower for learning and HR. Embrace it, but also tread carefully to ensure everyone benefits from this tech marvel.
AI in HR
Today, AI is being used to improve employee recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and retention. Josh Bersin shares how AI can help HR professionals save time, improve efficiency, and make better decisions. Overall, the article provides a good overview of the potential benefits of AI for HR professionals. As AI develops, it will become an even more important tool for HR professionals.
Mineral’s 2023 State of HR
The future of HR is here! Mineral’s 2023 State of HR Report highlights key trends, the impact of AI and machine learning on HR, and the strategic action items you need to take to prepare for the future.
What are your thoughts on Walmart's new AI tool?
Despite growing demand, only 13% of employees offered AI training last year
A significant gap in AI training efforts within enterprises despite the growing demand for AI skills is presented in this Randstad survey. Only 13% of employees worldwide received AI training from their employers in the past year, even though there has been a 20-fold increase in job roles requiring AI skills. This discrepancy underscores the need for enterprises to invest in AI training to fully harness the potential of generative AI tools like ChatGPT and other AI technologies.
The survey also reveals that employees recognize the importance of AI skills for their careers, with over half believing that AI proficiency will improve their job prospects. However, the lack of training opportunities hinders their ability to upskill in AI. This gap between demand and supply in AI training is particularly pronounced in countries like Germany and the UK.
AI and mental health
New research from the American Psychological Association delves into the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and mental health in the workplace, shedding light on how AI and monitoring technologies impact employees.
11 HR Trends for 2024: Elevating Work
HR is changing. It's not just sticking to its old ways but undergoing a big transformation. There are 11 HR trends shaping this change, according to AIHR. And guess what? HR is dealing with today's problems and setting things up for a better future. HR is bringing new ideas and smart strategies to make companies grow, include everyone, and stay strong. By taking on this bigger role, HR is leading companies to improve. So, in 2024, HR is stepping into the spotlight in this new era of work.
Season of Giving Contest through Nov 30, 2023!
three winners of the drawing Will Get to PICK A CHARITY to which HR GECKOS will MAKE A donatION!
The rules are simple!
Step 1:Rate and review the HR Bytes Podcast on Spotify Of course, we appreciate 5-star reviews, but they aren't required.
Step 2:Take a screenshot of your review and send it to us via email: [info [at] hrgeckos dot com].
Bonus Step 3:Share your review or a link to our show on your social networks. We hope to see you win big! The drawing will be in the first week of December 2023!
Geckos’ Ear Candy
HR Podcast Recommendations
This month, we are listening to the Drive Thru HR podcast with Robin Schooling, Michael VanDervort, Crystal Lay, and Dwane Lay. This is the perfect podcast if you are interested in a wide range of topics, including HR technology, hiring, talent management, leadership, organizational culture, and HR strategy.
And, of course, we are excited for our very own HR Bytes, where we bring stories of HR trailblazers who are redefining HR with a global mindset and local impact. Check out our latest conversation with Anna Turner of Paycor https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html
Geckos’ Top Tails
HR Bookshelf Selections
A few new reads we found to stay on top of the latest trends in HR and the future of work.
Built for People: Transform your Employee Experience Using Product Management Principles by Jessica Zwaan (May 2023)
Humans At Work: The art and practices of creating the hybrid workplace by Anna Tavis and Stela Lupushor (March 2022)
Remote Not Distant: Design a Company Culture That Will Help You Thrive in a Hybrid Workplace by Gustavo Razzetti (July 2022)
Running Remote: Master the Lessons from the World’s Most Successful Remote-Work Pioneers by Rob Rawson and Liam Martin (Aug 2022)
The Big Book of HR: Revised and Expanded Edition by Barbara Mitchell and Cornelia Gamlem (January 2022)
HR Bytes ReminderS Mark Your Dates with HR Excellence
October 1-31
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
This month is dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer and encouraging early detection and treatment. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, but it is also one of the most treatable when caught early.
October 1-31
National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month
This month is dedicated to raising awareness about depression and mental health and encouraging people to get screened
October 2
International Day of Non-Violence
This day is dedicated to promoting non-violence and peace around the world. It was established in 1964 to honor the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi
October 10
World Mental Health Day
This day is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and encouraging people to seek help if they need it. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and everyone deserves to live a life free from mental illness.
October 11
International Day of the Girl Child
This day is dedicated to celebrating girls and raising awareness about the challenges they face. Girls are the future, and it is important to invest in their education, health, and well-being.
We’d like to welcome two new Newsletters in our community warmly!
SHRM Labs Newsletter:
SHRM Labs Newsletter is your one-stop shop for the latest insights and trends in HR technology and transformation. Stay ahead of the curve and learn from HR leaders and innovators. Our friends at SHRM Labs are sharing lots of Work Tech insights, and make sure you join the Community there as well!
HR Tech Wizard Newsletter:
Our HR Tech Wizard friend, Tim Whitley, has launched a free HR Tech Substack Newsletter dedicated to the fascinating world of HR Tech. This newsletter aims to create a welcoming space where Tim shares knowledge, insights, and valuable resources, catering to both newcomers in the HR Tech space and those passionate about HR systems and analytics.
October's embrace of change mirrors our own aspirations in HR. It's the opportune time to sow the seeds of fresh ideas and approaches. Let's join forces to make this month truly remarkable by nurturing a culture of growth, inclusivity, and innovation. Stay inspired, stay motivated, and we'll meet again in our next newsletter!
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Join the HR Bytes Community to share, learn, and grow! Look for us on LinkedIn and Facebook (search for HR Bytes)
Tune in to the HR Bytes Podcast at https://hrgeckos.com/podcast.html