The way we work is changing fast because of AI tools that augment capabilities in day to day business processes. This is especially true for the people who handle hiring and managing workers in companies.
According to Gartner, 81% of HR leaders are either already using AI or planning to use it soon. While these new AI tools could make many jobs easier and better, companies have to make smart choices about how to use them. The way companies handle these decisions today will affect how well they can use AI to help their workers tomorrow while avoiding problems that might come up along the way.
How to Start Using AI in HR?
Companies have different ways they can bring AI into their HR work, from basic to more advanced:
Using Ready-Made Tools: The easiest is to use AI features that already come built into the HR software the company uses. As an HR leader, you just need to stay informed about new updates and decide which features align with your people strategy.
Adding AI to Current Systems: HR teams can take the lead in selecting superior AI tools like Microsoft Copilot to enhance their current systems. While this needs some technical support, HR drives the decisions based on what's best for employees and the business. This gives you more flexibility to choose tools that match your unique needs.
Creating Custom Solutions: Some companies, guided by HR's vision, develop AI solutions that are tailored to their specific workforce needs. This approach lets HR shape exactly how AI will support their people strategies. While it requires more resources and technical collaboration, HR remains in the driver's seat of how the technology serves its goals.
The key is for HR to take ownership of these decisions, bringing in technical expertise when needed, but always keeping the focus on what's best for your people and organization. You'll want to weigh whether you need something that works quickly or something more powerful that you can shape to fit your specific needs.
Microsoft Copilot: A Game-Changer for HR in 2025
Microsoft Copilot exemplifies the "extend" approach, offering superior out-of-the-box capabilities that integrate seamlessly with organizational data. Designed to assist HR professionals, Copilot transforms routine tasks such as drafting policies, summarizing reports, and several other, processes.
Introducing Copilot Agents
Copilot Agents are specialized AI assistants that connect to organizational knowledge bases and data repositories. These agents not only augment repetitive tasks but also provide data-driven insights to inform strategic decisions. Fully integrated with tools like Microsoft 365, these agents adapt to existing workflows, ensuring users maintain productivity while introducing cutting-edge capabilities.
By incorporating tools like Microsoft Copilot and its agents, HR teams can move beyond transactional tasks to focus on driving talent strategy, enhancing employee experiences, and fostering organizational growth.
Example of HR Activities with Microsoft Copilot
Activity | Without Copilot (Time Taken) | With Copilot (Time Taken) | Time Saved | Sample Prompt |
Generating Employee Policies | 4 hours | 30 minutes | 3 hours 30 mins | "Copilot draft a remote work policy based on our company guidelines, including sections on hours, security, and tools." |
Analyzing Employee Engagement Data | 2 hours | 20 minutes | 1 hour 40 mins | "Copilot Analyze the latest employee engagement survey results and provide a summary with key trends and recommendations." |
Creating Onboarding Schedules | 1.5 hours | 10 minutes | 1 hour 20 mins | "Create an onboarding schedule for a new hire in the marketing team, tailored to their first 30 days." |
Developing a Talent Gap Analysis Report | 3 hours | 40 minutes | 2 hours 20 mins | "Generate a talent gap analysis report using the data provided in the chat on skills, positions, and future needs." |
Note: Time are indicative
Looking Ahead in 2025
Generative AI represents more than a tool for improving efficiency—it is a catalyst for reimagining work. By leveraging platforms like Microsoft Copilot and its agents, HR leaders can navigate the complexities of AI adoption, building adaptable, future-ready workforces to become more productive and generate higher revenue.
At ALTA Consulting, we are confident in the potential of GenAI that we guarantee a 25% boost in productivity—or your money back.
Ready to see these benefits in action? Register for our upcoming webinar in January 2025 where we will showcase how you can leverage GenAI to optimize HR workflows, enhance productivity, and drive revenue growth in your business.
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