Transformations in HR Roles Due to Pandemic: Navigating the New Normal
The impact of the ongoing pandemic extends across all business functions, but perhaps no department has undergone as dramatic a change as the human resources (HR) team. As organizations shifted to remote working models, the responsibilities and operations of HR professionals have evolved significantly. This article explores how the role of HR has transformed and the new challenges and tasks that have emerged.
Navigating the New Normal: Shift to Remote Work
Before the pandemic, traditional face-to-face interactions were the norm in HR operations. However, the sudden shift to virtual work environments has necessitated a rapid transition. HR teams now handle most processes remotely, from planning virtual recruitment to onboarding new employees and managing performance. This shift required HR professionals to develop new skills and adapt to digital communication and collaboration tools.
New Responsibilities and Challenges
The pandemic has introduced several new responsibilities and challenges for HR teams:
1. Navigating Virtual Recruiting
One of the most significant changes has been the shift to virtual recruitment. Traditional in-person interviews are now conducted via video calls, and the entire recruitment process—from job posting to onboarding—must be managed online. HR teams must not only adapt but also master this new method to ensure that hiring processes remain efficient and effective despite the physical distance between team members and candidates.
2. Managing Remote Teams
Managing remote teams was not a standard practice before the pandemic. HR professionals now need to ensure that employees can perform their tasks remotely while maintaining productivity and engagement. Tools like Deel, Velocity Global, and Skuad have become essential for efficient management. These platforms help in streamlining communication, tracking performance, and ensuring compliance with global labor regulations.
3. Learning and Implementing New Technologies
The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital technologies in the workplace. HR teams have been tasked with selecting, learning, and implementing these new systems. The focus is on intuitive, waterproof, and portable solutions that can connect employees from anywhere. Technologies such as project management software (e.g., Asana), collaboration tools (e.g., Slack), and payroll and benefits management systems (e.g., Gusto) have become integral to HR operations.
Rapid Digitalization of HR Functions
The pandemic has accelerated the digitalization of HR functions, transforming traditional roles into more technology-centric positions. HR teams are no longer just responsible for managing day-to-day operations but have also taken on the burden of ensuring a seamless digital experience for both employees and external stakeholders.
Conclusion
The pandemic has fundamentally altered the landscape of human resources. What was once a primarily in-person role has become digital and remote. HR professionals today must be adept at navigating virtual processes, managing remote teams, and embracing new technologies. These changes are not just temporary measures; they represent a shift towards a more digitally integrated, flexible, and resilient approach to HR management.