How is HR Evolving?

HR has never been a static industry, but the scope and pace of recent evolutions is arguably more significant than ever before. Thanks to challenges and opportunities that are unique to the 21st century, companies of all sizes and across industries are having to rethink how they find, attract, recruit, and retain talent. Here is a quick overview of some of these new HR practices.

Moving into Social Spaces

In the past, it was enough to write up a brief, boring job description and wait for candidates to come flocking. In order to connect with today’s talent, companies are increasingly using social media to advertise vacancies, source candidates, refine the vetting process, and create an employer brand.

HR in the C-Suite

Most companies, particularly those in the Restaurant/Hospitality industries, suffer from a severe talent shortage and a skills gap. These companies also understand the deep, long-term value that top talent can bring to an organization. In order to introduce efficient, effective, optimized recruiting & retention staffing strategies, HR is increasingly being treated as part of the core management function. Some companies have even created a Chief of Human Resources position.

Introducing New Technologies

Automation has changed the way that companies approach HR. Everything from recruiting to onboarding and even ongoing training is now easier, faster, and more cost effective thanks to a wave of new applications. This trend will only accelerate, especially as the capabilities of big data improve and enable a form of empirical recruiting that has never been possible before.

Emphasis on Culture

It’s no longer enough to offer a generous compensation package. Employees increasingly want to work for companies that reflect their own goals, interests, and values. This is especially true for millennial talent that now makes up the bulk of the workforce. In response, HR professionals are now responsible for defining, establishing, and maintaining company culture, and leveraging that culture as a recruiting resource.

Willingness to Change

The first HR department was established at The National Cash Register Company in 1901. And for much of the next century, the focus and strategies of HR stayed the same. That is changing quickly as companies realize that the old ways of doing things become less effective every day. Right now there is a wave of innovation transforming HR departments worldwide. And for the first time in a long time, those departments are eager to embrace the change.

Partner with a Leader in Restaurant/Hospitality Recruiting

A final point to consider is that HR is not nearly as insular or self contained as it used to be. In order to improve outcomes, HR departments are relying heavily on trusted, specialized recruiting firms to help them attract & hire talent. These firms have great influence with candidates. They can reach far beyond what classified ads and job postings produce and they have the focus and resources necessary to accelerate the hiring process and produce higher-quality hires. To strengthen your recruiting efforts,, build a relationship with a search firm that considers itself an extension of your HR department. And treat them as such and you and your company will reap the rewards.