Addressing HR Challenges Through AI

A recent survey conducted by Isolved in collaboration with Talker Research, highlights significant frustrations among the U.S. workforce. These findings underscore the mounting pressure on HR departments to effectively address employee grievances, highlighting how AI can facilitate this process.

The findings of the survey reveal that HR professionals are navigating a complex array of employee grievances. The most prevalent concerns include dissatisfaction with salary, feeling undervalued, inadequate work-life balance, and discontent with benefits. These employee frustrations are often exacerbated by underlying factors such as poor communication, rule violations, workplace negativity, and rampant office gossip. 

Altogether, these employee grievances are taking a significant emotional toll on HR professionals, with 30% of respondents reporting that they feel mentally drained, 24% experiencing burnout and 34% contemplating a career change. This situation highlights the urgent need for improved support systems within organizations for HR professionals.

"As organizations, our focus must extend beyond offering competitive monetary salaries; we must also consider emotional compensation. Today's employees seek cohesive leadership that resonates throughout the entire organizational structure," says Albeth Rubio, Vice President of Benefits and Compensations, AT&T México.

In addition to these persistent issues, HR departments are grappling with recruitment challenges and the need for ongoing employee training. Nearly 39% of survey respondents reported difficulties in upskilling their workforce, while 36% struggled to find qualified candidates. Interpersonal challenges further complicate their roles, with 31% frequently addressing workplace etiquette and 20% often mediating conflicts stemming from office romances.

Despite their critical role in maintaining workplace operations, many HR teams operate under immense stress and limited recognition, suggests the survey’s data. Only 9% of HR professionals feel they consistently complete their daily tasks, while 42% find themselves working beyond regular hours. The workload has become so overwhelming that 28% of HR professionals indicate they would need to outsource 31% of their responsibilities to manage effectively.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into HR processes has emerged as a potential solution to alleviate some of these burdens. The survey indicates that 77% of HR professionals consider AI training essential for enhancing their roles, and 81% of those at companies utilizing AI report its application in their daily tasks. On average, AI is responsible for managing 34% of HR-related activities, allowing professionals to focus more on building meaningful employee relationships. 

“Technology is compelling us to improve performance and elevate the position of HR more prominently within companies," said Eduardo Asaf, Partner, McKinsey.