HR & AI: Closing the Adoption Gap

Let's face it: HR has become the dumping ground for just about every new initiative that comes down the pike. We're constantly taking on more projects, more tasks, more responsibilities. Why? Because we genuinely want to provide value and support our organizations. It's what we do. But let's be real - our to-do lists are growing faster than the spotted lantern flies in my backyard this summer!

Now, here's the thing. We've got this tool at our fingertips that could make our lives so much easier, but for some reason, we're not jumping on it like other teams are.

No surprise... I'm talking about AI.

But here's the thing: despite its potential, we in HR are lagging behind other departments when it comes to AI adoption.

And it's even more pronounced among women (generally and in our field specifically). This isn't just about keeping up with the Joneses other departments. It's about seizing an opportunity to lead the charge in a field that's increasingly driven by data and innovation.

The AI Adoption Challenge in HR: A Wake-Up Call

Recent research from the University of Chicago paints a stark picture of the AI adoption landscape across industries. The study, surveying 100,000 workers across 11 occupations, reveals a concerning trend in HR:

• Only 45% of HR professionals are using AI tools like ChatGPT at work.
• This adoption rate pales in comparison to fields like journalism and software development.
• A significant gender gap exists, with younger, less experienced, and male workers leading the adoption curve.

These statistics aren't just numbers—they're a call to action for us as HR leaders. The gap in AI adoption isn't just a technological divide; it's a potential missed opportunity to significantly improve how we manage, develop, and empower our workforce.

Why AI Literacy is Non-Negotiable for HR Leaders

1. Shaping Organizational Policies: As AI becomes more prevalent, we will be at the forefront of developing and implementing AI policies. Our understanding of AI will directly influence how our organizations navigate and leverage AI adoption and implementations.
2. Making Informed Recommendations: AI literacy empowers us to make data-driven recommendations that can significantly impact our organization's strategy and operations.
3. Driving Equality and Fairness: With a deeper understanding of AI, we have a deep impact on how these tools reflect the realities of our population both gender and race... with the desired result of building more diversity in responses rather than inadvertently perpetuating biases.
4. Enhancing Employee Experience: AI can revolutionize everything from recruitment to employee development. Our expertise is crucial in implementing these tools in ways that truly benefit your workforce.
5. Future-Proofing Your Role: As AI continues to evolve, those of us that understand and can leverage it will be invaluable to our organizations. This is the opportunity to position ourselves as a strategic leaders in the AI adoption for our teams.

Bridging the Gap: A Roadmap for HR Leaders

1. Start Small, Think Big: Begin by identifying one HR process that could benefit from AI. Whether it's automating initial resume screenings or analyzing employee engagement data, taking that first step can build confidence and set the stage for broader adoption.
2. Foster a Culture of Innovation: Encourage your team to explore and experiment with AI tools. Create a safe environment where learning and even failure are seen as steps toward progress. Need help with the roadmap - I'm happy to help!
3. Collaborate Across Departments: Partner with other departments that may be adopting AI more. Their insights can be invaluable in understanding and implementing AI solutions effectively.
4. Be the Bridge: Position yourself as the link between AI capabilities and human needs. Your unique perspective as an HR leader is crucial in ensuring AI is used to enhance, not replace, human potential.
5. Continuous Learning: The AI landscape is constantly evolving. Commit to ongoing education through workshops, webinars, and courses specifically tailored for HR professionals.

A Call to Action

It's time for HR to lead in AI adoption. But in order to do that we must push back the uncertainty, lean into our curiosity and dig into learning.

By embracing AI literacy, we're not just keeping pace with technology—we're positioning our HR teams and organizations at the forefront of the future of work.

Take the first step today:

1. Assess current AI knowledge and identify gaps. I have tools that can help unfurl this information for you and your team!
2. Explore AI education resources specifically designed for HR professionals. Did you know that peoplepower.ai does this 365 days a year, and we'd love to talk through ways this might look for your team?
3. Engage with your peers and share experiences in AI adoption. Join our Free tri-weekly AI Quick Clinics to learn more about everyday AI for HR. (Click here to register: https://tally.so/r/3EdpWr)
4. Start a conversation with your leadership about the strategic importance of AI in HR.

Remember, in the world of AI and HR, the most powerful tool is still the us—our insight, empathy, and leadership. By combining these qualities with AI literacy, we will not only adapt to the changing landscape but shape it, ensuring that the future of work is both high-tech and human-centered.

Let's be PEOPLE-FIRST, AI-FORWARD!

The future of HR is AI-empowered, and it starts with you. How can I help you lead the charge?

Theresa Fesinstine is an accomplished HR Executive and Founder of peoplepower.ai, and has been recognized as a Top 50 over 50 in AI by Pyn , and received the AI Award for AI Thought Leadership by Dextego . She has also been named a LinkedIn Top Voice in Artificial Intelligence. With a career spanning over 25 years in HR leadership, a certificatein AI for Business Strategy from MIT, and AI Certificate in Business by Zortify, Theresa is dedicated to making artificial intelligence accessible for non-tech professionals and leveraging AI to enhance employee engagement and transform workplace cultures.

Mission: Flatten the AI Learning Curve for HR Professionals.