HR takes on new tasks as AI delivers gains

HR departments across Australia are taking on additional work as artificial intelligence enables them to take on higher-value tasks for organisations, according to a new report.

Findings from Robert Half's latest poll show that 88% of HR departments now have more responsibilities as AI and automation shoulder more of their workload.

These new tasks for HR departments include:

• Improving HR service delivery through continuous process improvement (46%)
• Developing and optimising HR policies and procedures (45%)
• Researching and implementing new HR best practices (43%)
• Interpreting complex HR data and generating actionable insights (42%)
• Focusing on proactive talent pipelining and employer branding (37%)

Nicole Gorton, director at Robert Half, said these new responsibilities indicate that teams are getting empowered to focus on "innovation and tactical process improvement."

"Across the board, the new responsibilities staff are taking on are clear signals of the emerging skills economy; skills that complement AI, not compete with it. We're seeing a push toward critical thinking, ethical oversight, and strategic analysis," Gorton said in a statement.

"For businesses, the focus is gradually shifting from purely technical expertise to candidates who can complement their tech skills with strategic thinking and the ability to leverage technology for broader organisational impact."

AI delivers on productivity gains

According to the report, the biggest return of AI is on productivity metrics, such as faster task completion and increased output (47%).

The technology also delivered benefits on employee experience, such as better engagement and reduced burnout (47%). Others said AI gains include:

• Revenue growth, such as improved customer targeting and higher sales conversion (44%)
• Cost reductions, such as lower labour costs and fewer manual errors (43%)

"AI is delivering returns beyond cost savings, with improved employee experience now standing alongside productivity as a key driver of ROI," Gorton said.

As a result of these gains, the report found that 87% of employers are now looking for talent with AI and automation proficiency.

The majority (88%), however, noted that it is challenging to find talent with these skills.

"The challenges in finding the right talent are preventing companies from maximising their returns and taking their business to the next level," Gorton said.

"Many businesses are still defining the skills they truly need, making it essential to clearly communicate expectations during the hiring process to attract the right candidates."

Australia's Productivity Commission has estimated that productivity gains from AI will mean an extra $116 billion over the next decade.