Human Resources, or HR, is one of the most important things in the corporate world if done right. From tending to the workforce to introducing new policies for the benefit of the company and the employees, HRs can significantly impact their companies. This is evident from some of the best companies in the world.
For example, Unilever, a global consumer goods company with a strong foothold in various Asian countries, revolutionised its hiring process using artificial intelligence (AI). In 2024, Unilever’s HR team fully integrated AI tools like HireVue and Pymetrics to assess candidates through game-based assessments and digital interviews analysed by algorithms. This saved time and eliminated unconscious bias in the hiring process because, in general, humans are fundamentally biased creatures. The results were staggering. Unilever reduced its hiring time by 75%, saving approximately $1 million in recruitment costs while improving diversity by 16% in managerial roles. This innovation made Unilever a model for digital-first recruitment strategies.
Similarly, PwC, a professional services brand, demonstrated the benefits of innovative HR practices. By rolling out a data-driven employee well-being program, PwC’s HR team could identify burnout risks early and proactively provide mental health resources and flexible work arrangements. This led to a 12% increase in employee engagement and a 25% reduction in absenteeism by 2024, translating into significant cost savings and a more motivated workforce.
Another great example of how HR can revolutionise the workplace by making informed and innovative decisions is Microsoft. Their HR innovation in 2024 focused on hybrid work models that blended flexibility and productivity. This is something that employees also appreciate, as evidenced by a study by the Manpower Group, which stated that around 81% of employees in the Asia-Pacific region view flexible working solutions as one of the best ways to maintain a healthy work-life balance. The tech giant also introduced “Workplace Analytics,” a tool that tracked employee collaboration and work patterns to ensure that flexible hours didn’t lead to burnout. Microsoft’s HR team encouraged leaders to use data to personalise work schedules for each employee, promoting a work-life balance while maintaining productivity. The policy led to a 15% increase in employee satisfaction and a 20% decrease in employee turnover, which is massive for a company like Microsoft.
HR innovations are not limited to improving the workplace for employees. Rather, HR is also responsible for ensuring that employees have all the necessary skills. PepsiCo introduced an upskilling initiative called “PepU” to ensure its workforce could meet future digital demands. In 2024, HR teams provided online courses, certifications, and mentorship programs, emphasising digital and leadership skills. The initiative resulted in a 30% increase in internal promotions and enhanced employee loyalty, reducing recruitment costs by $500,000 annually.
This only goes on to prove that even after several HR software, the role of HR is an ever-evolving one. This makes it absolutely necessary for HRs to keep evolving and innovating the workplace.
