While other sectors have been quick to invest in technology, HR has often trailed behind. Charlie attributes this to a few factors. Historically, HR has not always played a leading role in organizations. This has sometimes led to trust issues, as those using HR products aren’t necessarily involved in their selection. HR is frequently seen as a cost center rather than an investment. Consequently, innovation and resources in this space can be limited.
In this podcast, Dan Saul and Censia’s Charlie Lockyer discuss how recruiting has changed in the face of AI, and what recruiters need to do to keep up:
From Manual Research to LinkedIn: The Game Changer
Reflecting on recruitment practices before 2005, Charlie reminisces about the times when finding the right candidates was more art than science. Recruiters had to use creative tactics, like posing as conference organizers or taxmen, to identify potential talent.
However, platforms like LinkedIn revolutionized this process, making candidate discovery more efficient and accessible. As technology continually disrupts HR, the core value propositions of jobs evolve, pushing professionals to shift their focus.
Facing Tech Advancements: Fear or Opportunity?
One of the concerns echoed throughout the discussion was the fear that technology might replace human jobs. But as Charlie points out, while technology enhances efficiency, it can’t make a change on its own. Individuals and companies must be willing to adopt and adapt to these technologies.
This shift in mindset requires a multi-faceted approach. Drawing inspiration from other industries, Charlie uses the example of Intercom, which has positioned itself as an industry expert through content marketing, influencing a broad spectrum of users to adopt their product.
From Current State to Visionary Future
Charlie beautifully illustrates a vision-driven approach by referencing Airbnb. The company started by imagining an ideal guest experience and then expanded upon this vision. Similarly, the world of recruitment should look at where they are today and envision where they want to be in the future. Emphasizing the rapid changes in the tech world, like the existence of advanced tools such as ChatGPT, Charlie nudges the audience to think forward and recognize that predictions from films or books might not be so distant from our future reality.
Conclusion: Adapt or Get Left Behind
The key takeaway from the podcast is clear: in the face of exponential change, adaptation is not optional—it’s necessary. While the HR landscape is undergoing rapid shifts, Charlie remains optimistic. He acknowledges the rising influence of tech-savvy generations like Gen Z and millennials, urging the HR world to evolve alongside them.
To those in the recruitment and HR sectors, the message is loud and clear: the future belongs to those who can harmonize the power of technology with the inherent human touch of their roles.If you’re interested in hearing more from Charlie Lockyer, you can connect with him on LinkedIn.
