'Ensure you don't lose the "human" element as an HR professional'

HR professionals are all competing to get an edge and attract and retain the best talent.

Consequently, being progressive and integrating new technology, while phasing out antiquated methods and tools is “naturally a big piece of that puzzle”, according to Johnny Farquhar – CEO and founder, PreviewMe.

Indeed, advancing technology is enabling HR departments to streamline processes and reduce time-consuming administrative work, which is set to have a major impact for the HR profession in New Zealand.

Farquhar will be speaking at the upcoming New Zealand National HR Summit on the topic of The future of HR in a world of disruptive technology.

“I am going to be participating in a panel discussion with representatives from Auckland Council and Air New Zealand on how advances in technology will affect the HR profession,” said Farquhar.

He added that the panel will explore how the gig economy affects attracting and retaining talent.

“We will also put the spot light on areas of HR that may become obsolete / evolve overtime with new technology and what impact this might have on emerging HR talent / professionals going forward.”

“HR is a competitive, but tight knit and collegial profession – events like this are opportunities to bring them all together and get up to speed on the things that will impact on the industry as a whole (case and point – changes to the technology landscape). “

So if Farquhar could give one piece of advice to HR professionals relating to the future of HR in a world of disruptive technology, what would it be?

“Through a recruitment lens; HR professionals should embrace new technology that make their lives easier and delivers better candidate and client experiences – ensure you don’t start to lose the ‘human’ element as an HR professional by going too far down the technology rabbit hole.”

Other topics which Farquhar’s panel will be discussing include:

• How will the rising gig economy affect talent attraction and retention?
• Can technology improve employee diversity, close gender pay gaps and enhance health and safety?
• Will areas of HR practice become obsolete with advancing technology?
• How will technology affect the career path of junior HR professionals?

The New Zealand National HR Summit will take place on 21 August 2018 at the Hilton Auckland. To register, click here.