Today, HR is much more than just an enforcer of policies in the workplace. With new challenges like remote work, diversity, and mental health taking center stage, HR plays a vital role in creating a culture that’s not only productive but also caring and supportive. And with AI in the workplaces, HR can now automate mundane tasks like resume screening and scheduling, freeing up time and cutting costs, so they can focus on the human side of their work. 

How can HR be more ‘human’ with AI? 

By streamlining HR processes, AI enables HR professionals to shift their focus to more strategic roles – advisory, designers of workplace culture, and champions of employee engagement. Far from replacing the human element, generative AI can empower HR to create a more compassionate, thoughtful approach to managing teams, fostering an environment where employees feel both supported and valued while driving innovation and efficiency. The challenge, however, lies in identifying the right tasks for AI, ensuring data security, and upskilling HR teams to meet this new, dynamic role head-on.

According to a latest study by Bain & Company, on average, AI automation can save up to 20 percent of manual labor. Additionally, HR business partners can save up to 15 per cent of their time, talent acquisition teams can save up to 20 per cent of their time, and HR ops can save up to 35 per cent of their time.

Susan Gunn, Partner and global Head of HR product solutions of Bain & Company added, “Adopting generative AI is more than an operational upgrade. It’s a strategic leap forward for the HR function that will unlock new levels of efficiency, innovation, and value. We used Bain’s Generative AI Workforce Impact Explorer tool, which enables practitioners to model strategic change through the use of generative AI, to quantify what this could mean for HR departments. The results show just how game changing generative AI will be for HR practitioners.”

What enhancements are possible through AI in HR? 

Some of the AI implementation enhancements that can redefine HR’s role include:

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6 Considerations for HRs leading this shift..

#1 Building a robust tech and data foundation

HR needs to build a strong tech and data foundation while protecting personal information (PII). This means ensuring the right tech, data quality, and security measures are in place to support AI. HR must also update data management practices to address new privacy and security challenges.

#2 Focus on the most strategic opportunities 

Focus on the most strategic opportunities. Rather than spreading efforts across many small projects, successful organisations start with one use case that has the potential for big impact. For example, automating talent screening could show recruiters how much time AI can save.

#3 Embracing compliance

HR leaders must ensure human oversight of AI in HR processes and address any potential risks. This requires stronger compliance checks and ongoing collaboration with legal teams.

#4 Invest in reskilling and upskilling 

As AI handles routine tasks, HR professionals will need to develop new skills to tackle more complex business challenges. Top organisations will support this shift by offering strong upskilling programs to help HR adapt to their evolving roles. 

#5 Clear communication is essential

To foster a positive narrative, HR leaders can avoid fear-based stories and encourage curiosity by involving the entire HR team in adopting generative AI from the start and learning together.

#6 Change is the new role model

The best HR leaders will embrace AI in their daily work, setting the right example for the organisation, especially digital natives. HR departments that resist AI risk losing forward-thinking talent. Fortunately, getting started with simple AI tools—like a chatbot to help recruiters match candidates to positions—can be an easy first step.

Adopting generative AI not only improves HR operations but also drives efficiency, innovation, and growth. HR leaders who embrace AI and automation can position themselves as a powerful force for strategic advantage.