As organizations navigate the evolving world of talent acquisition, the balance between digital innovation and the human touch has never been more critical. In a recent episode of the Hiring Excellence podcast, Johnny Campbell, CEO of SocialTalent, sat down with Salma Rashad, EVP and Global Head of Talent Acquisition at Siemens, to explore how her team is adapting to this transformation. From skills-based hiring to AI-driven recruitment, Siemens is embracing new strategies while keeping advisory and experience at the core of hiring.

Timestamps:

Also available on: LinkedIn, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts!

Key Takeaways

1. Technology with Purpose

Siemens operates at the intersection of the physical and digital worlds, creating technology that empowers its customers. Salma highlighted how the company’s “One Tech” strategy guides this transformation, enabling greater innovation, customer focus, and sustainability. With over 40,000 hires a year, talent acquisition plays a crucial role in supporting Siemens’ ambitious goals.

One key challenge is the evolving competition for talent. While Siemens enjoys strong brand recognition in some markets, attracting candidates in emerging segments requires a more strategic approach. Data-driven insights and a clear employee value proposition help Siemens stand out in a crowded hiring landscape.

2. Shifting the Hiring Experience

A major priority for Siemens is improving both hiring speed and quality. One way they’ve done this is by incorporating strengths-based assessments into their recruitment process. Rather than relying solely on traditional CV screenings, candidates are encouraged to showcase their unique strengths. This shift has transformed hiring conversations, allowing managers to focus on what candidates bring to the role, rather than simply screening out those who don’t meet rigid requirements.

The results have been clear. Candidates who go through the assessment process report a more positive experience, with hiring managers also benefitting from more structured and insightful interviews. The approach not only enhances decision-making but also aligns with Siemens’ broader focus on fostering a growth mindset and continuous development.

3. The Role of Advisory in Talent Acquisition

While AI and automation are streamlining recruitment processes, the human advisory aspect remains essential. Salma emphasized that many hiring managers only recruit occasionally, sometimes once every two or three years. Without proper guidance, they may struggle to navigate evolving hiring practices. This is where the advisory role of talent acquisition professionals becomes indispensable.

Siemens is investing in upskilling its TA team to serve as strategic advisors. By partnering closely with hiring managers and equipping them with the right tools, the company ensures that recruitment is both efficient and effective. Advisory is not just about filling positions, it’s about understanding business needs, leveraging data, and making informed hiring decisions that align with Siemens’ long-term vision.

4. Looking Ahead: The Future of Talent Acquisition

As AI and automation continue to reshape recruitment, Siemens is embracing these tools not to replace human decision-making but to enhance it. Salma noted that the real opportunity lies in using AI to drive innovation rather than simply increasing efficiency. Skills-based hiring is another area of focus, with Siemens experimenting with new ways to prioritize potential over traditional qualifications.

Another emerging challenge is the arrival of Gen Alpha into the workforce. As digital natives with different expectations for work and technology, their presence will require companies to rethink their approaches to talent attraction and retention. Authenticity in employer branding, strong workplace culture, and a commitment to professional growth will be more important than ever.

Conclusion

Siemens is proving that the future of talent acquisition isn’t about choosing between digital and human approaches, it’s about integrating the two. By leveraging AI while maintaining a strong advisory function, the company is creating a recruitment experience that is both innovative and deeply human. With a focus on skills-based hiring, data-driven insights, and continuous learning, Siemens is setting the stage for the next evolution of talent acquisition.

Interested in hearing the full conversation?

Catch this episode and more on LinkedIn, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.