The Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) role is undergoing a paradigm shift. No longer confined to a rigid, three-pillar model, today’s CHROs navigate a dynamic landscape, grappling with technological advancements, evolving workforce demands, and the ever-present need to nurture the “human” in human resources. This article delves into the changing landscape of the CHRO role, exploring emerging trends and offering insights on how HR leaders can thrive in this transformative era.
Farewell, One-Size-Fits-All: Embracing Five HR Operating Models
The traditional Ulrich model, while foundational, is struggling to keep pace with the demands of modern organizations. Instead, a spectrum of HR operating models is emerging, each tailored to specific needs and priorities.
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The Ulrich-Plus Model: This updated version retains the core pillars while injecting greater flexibility and execution responsibilities into HR business partners.
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The Agile Model: Prioritizing rapid adaptation, this model features fewer HR business partners focused on counseling top management, alongside center of excellence teams tackling data, workforce planning, and diversity initiatives.
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The Employee-Experience-Driven Model: Obsessed with creating a world-class employee journey, this model allocates significant resources to “moments that matter” like onboarding and caters heavily to top talent.
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The Leader-Led Model: Shifting accountability to the business side, this model equips line managers with HR tools and back-office support for processes like hiring and development.
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The Machine-Powered Model: Leveraging algorithms for tasks like talent selection and absenteeism analysis, this model frees HR professionals to provide counsel and guidance.
Large, diversified organizations may even adopt a hybrid approach, drawing from various models to address different aspects of their business.
Beyond Efficiency: Putting the “Human” Back in Human Resources
While technology and cost-efficiency remain crucial, CHROs are increasingly seeking to prioritize the human element. McKinsey’s recent interviews with European CHROs reveal a strong desire for more people-centric policies, acknowledging the potential loss of core human elements in the wake of technological advancements.
Here’s how CHROs can champion the human touch:
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Engage directly with employees: Move beyond self-service solutions and foster face-to-face interactions for a more personalized experience.
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Embrace diverse workplaces: Acknowledge and address individual needs and perspectives, promoting inclusivity and a sense of belonging.
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Empower agile workforces: Spread decision-making and equip employees with the skills and mindsets to thrive in dynamic environments.
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Develop human capital: Expand the talent pool by engaging temporary workers and freelancers, tapping into diverse skillsets and fostering flexibility.
Tech Savvy CHROs: Sourcing, Supporting, and Scaling Tech Talent
With tech talent in high demand, CHROs must collaborate with technology leaders to attract and retain skilled professionals. Strategies include:
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Skills-based sourcing: Emphasize skills over academic pedigrees when filling critical technology roles.
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Streamlined processes: Leverage digital tools and psychometrics to personalize career paths and upskilling opportunities.
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Continuous learning: Foster a culture of continual learning to ensure employees stay relevant in the face of rapid technological change.
Gen AI: Friend or Foe? Shaping Talent Management in the AI Age
Generative AI (Gen AI) is not just for computer scientists; it presents significant opportunities for HR. CHROs can leverage Gen AI to:
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Augment employee experience: Facilitate faster upskilling and training, improving individual skillsets and adaptability.
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Empower middle managers: Free up managers’ time for higher-value tasks like strategy and people management.
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Personalize candidate relationships: Identify appropriate roles based on talent profiles and provide a more tailored recruitment experience.
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Streamline onboarding: Match new employees with mentors and coaches, enhancing the onboarding process and administrative efficiency.
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Focus on skill sets: Gen AI can accelerate the shift from credentials to learned skills in the recruiting process, fostering a more inclusive talent pool.
Leadership for an Agile Future: Inspiring Change from Within
Leading significant organizational change in this dynamic environment requires inspirational CHROs who focus on internal culture and the organization’s capacity for transformation. Effective CHROs should not only observe and listen but also propose, explain, and convince their stakeholders of the need for change.
Building Agile Leadership Capabilities:
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Shift mindsets: Encourage collaboration, abundance thinking, and a discovery-oriented approach over traditional hierarchical structures.
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Lead by example: CHROs themselves must embrace agile mindsets and demonstrate them in their leadership styles.
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Transform performance evaluations: Move beyond individual evaluations to collective performance assessments that break down silos and encourage teamwork.
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Leverage business reviews: Utilize quarterly business reviews to set objectives and key results that drive accountability and
Darren Trumbler is a versatile content writer specializing in B2B technology, marketing strategies, and wellness. With a knack for breaking down complex topics into engaging, easy-to-understand narratives, Darren helps businesses communicate effectively with their audiences.
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