Why it's smart to jump on the generative AI train (for HR) now?

generative AI

Everyone talks about generative AI. But what exactly is it and how does it work? And is this something you should be using in your HR work? To help you navigate these confusing waters, we've written this article - with a little help from generative AI, of course.

Let's take it from the start

Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence that can create new content based on what it has already learned. Think of it as a real creative assistant that can write texts, create images, and even program code for you, all based on information it has received. It's like having an assistant that never gets tired and is always ready to help.

Enterprise model

For large organizations, it can be advantageous to use what is called an enterprise model for generative AI. This means that the solution is adapted to the company's specific needs, with regard to data security, GDPR and internal use. An enterprise model can be both safer and more tailored than general AI tools, creating a solid foundation for an effective HR function.

A little more detail

Generative AI learns from lots of data, such as texts, images and other information. It uses this learning to create something new. For example, if you give it some sample emails, it can write new emails for you. It can also translate text, create music, or help design graphics. All of this is done by analyzing patterns in the data and using those patterns to create something new.

Once you understand what generative AI is and what it can actually do for you, your employees, your managers and your HR department, we're pretty sure you'll be using it and reaping the rewards faster than you can spell robot!

The benefits of generative AI are many.

...and below we list some of these

  1. Advanced technology - easily accessible: AI has become incredibly good at both understanding and generating human language. In other words, you provide input in the same way as you would to a colleague, and again you get exactly what you need. You explain in plain language what you want, and get an answer back in a flash. If it wasn't quite what you had in mind, you say so and ask for a new version, which you get straight away.
  2. Speaks Norwegian: That's right. Generative AI already speaks Norwegian, so you don't have to struggle to express yourself correctly in English, in writing - which some people find a barrier.
  3. Competitive advantage: By being one of the first to use AI, your business can get a head start on the competition. Clever, right?
  4. Only getting better: AI technology is constantly evolving, so the sooner you start using it, the more benefits you'll reap over time.

But what about the challenges associated with generative AI?

As with any technology, generative AI also comes with some pitfalls. It's important to use the tools critically and be aware of the possibility of errors or biases in the data the AI has learned from. For example, generative AI can give wrong answers or give advice based on outdated data. As with all tools, human judgment should always be part of the assessment to ensure that the solutions fit your business needs.

But how can generative AI actually make HR's job easier?

Generative AI can simply do wonders for your HR department. Below are some useful areas where it can be applied:

  1. Recruitment and hiring
    - Automagic CV sifting: AI can read through a pile of CVs at lightning speed and find the best candidates for the job. However, it's important to ensure that the process complies with GDPR regulations to protect the privacy of job applicants.
    - Candidate chatbots: AI-powered chatbots can answer jobseekers' questions, tell them about open positions and guide them through the application process. It's like having an extra HR employee who never gets tired.
  2. Training and development
    - Tailored training: AI can analyze what your employees need to learn and create customized training programs for each individual.
    - Virtual training partners: AI can be your personal training assistant, providing feedback and support throughout the learning journey.
  3. Employee wellbeing and engagement
    - Emotion detectives: AI can analyze employee feedback and find out how people really feel at work. Management gains insight into what's working and what's not.
    - Virtual assistant: AI assistants can help you with everything from booking meetings to keeping track of tasks and answering HR questions. A chat-based assistant can also answer questions about company policies, rules on vacation, leave and other common policies. This gives employees quick access to the information they need, without having to wait for a response from the HR department.
  4. Performance appraisal and career development
    - Fair assessment: AI can provide a more objective assessment of employee performance by looking at data from multiple sources and creating insightful reports.
    - Career guidance: AI can provide you with career development tips based on your skills, experience and goals. Your employees simply get a career coach, right in their pocket.
    - Help with describing goals: AI helps you set goals for the year. Who hasn't dreaded writing down the goals you want to work towards this year? With AI, you get help and support to do just that, so you can spend time on what really counts: self-development.

Adopting generative AI in the HR department can make a big difference. It's about streamlining processes, improving employee experiences and supporting management decisions. The technology is already really good and available in Norwegian, so there's no need to wait. With generic AI, you can create more dynamic, efficient and fun days at work.

By the way, have you read our article about SAP's digital assistant Joule?