Talent News Round-Up: Rescuing Diversity, Traits of Successful People, and AI in HR
Staying updated on the latest workforce trends is crucial for TA leaders and HR professionals. This week, we delve into three significant developments shaping the talent landscape and get SocialTalent CEO, Johnny Campell’s first-hand takes on these pieces.
- First, we look at a hugely impactful piece from the Financial Times which is digging into how we must reframe DEI in the context of the workplace given the recent (and unfortunate) surge in backlash.
- A thought-provoking news item from CNBC that leverages research from Harvard to determine that adaptability is the most important trait in successful people – and it’s a rarer feature than you might think!
- Finally, ERP Today’s feature on how HR needs to walk a tightrope when it comes to the inevitability of AI adoption is a considered and timely piece on ethics versus efficiency.
Join us as we explore these pivotal insights and their implications for the future of work.
1. Rescuing Diversity from the DEI Backlash
Source: Financial Times
The article discusses the challenges and evolution of corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives amidst legal and societal changes. JPMorgan Chase’s CEO reaffirmed commitment to DEI despite a US Supreme Court ruling against affirmative action in academia, triggering a reevaluation of corporate diversity policies. The article emphasizes the complexity of managing diverse workforces, the importance of genuine inclusion beyond mere representation, and the legal nuances DEI professionals must navigate. Companies face a critical need to attract and retain diverse talent to ensure long-term success in an increasingly diverse workforce.
Johnny Campbell’s take on this:
“Wow, this article has it all; a summary of the state of play in DEI, an update on what tactics are working and new insights on how the new “business case” for DEI is rather simple: it’s essential to retain and attract talent. A must read for every recruiter and DEI professional.“
2. The No. 1 Trait That Sets Highly Successful People Apart
Source: CNBC
A growing number of leading employers, including McKinsey, Accenture, Google, and IBM, are shifting their hiring practices to focus on skills over degrees, challenging the “paper ceiling” that blocks job opportunities for non-graduates. This movement, driven by rising education costs and changing job requirements, seeks to create more equitable employment pathways. Despite some progress, obstacles remain due to biased recruitment systems and employer preferences for degree holders.
Johnny Campbell’s take on this:
“Great reminder of the importance of adaptability or what many might call a Growth Mindset. I’d love to know though, how many recruiters or hiring managers actually screen for this? Better yet, please share the questions/ assessments you use!“
3. AI in HR: The Tightrope Walker of Recruitment
Source: ERP Today
Recruiters need superpowers to thrive in the AI age. This LinkedIn article gets takes from some of the leading recruiting experts, like Tim Sackett, who highlights the importance of making candidates feel valued, enhancing their experience with personalized attention. And Hung Lee, who advises leveraging AI for productivity gains to focus on important issues like DEIB and community building.
Johnny Campbell’s take on this:
“There’s some really great examples and stories used here of different organizations and how they are using and thinking about AI in recruiting. We all know that we’re going to have to decide when and where to use AI but this article should really help you navigate some of the decisions by referencing what peers are already doing.”