The Future of HR in the Age of Innovation and Disruption

By Busayo Ayenimo

Introduction

Nigeria is facing a critical challenge in retaining her talented and skilled workforce, as many young Nigerians are opting to relocate to other countries in search of better opportunities and living conditions. This phenomenon, popularly known as “japa”, has become a widespread trend among Nigerian youths and professionals, especially in the fields of health, education, technology, and entertainment. According to a 2022 survey by the Africa Polling Institute, 69% of Nigerians would emigrate out of the country with their families if given the chance.

This situation poses a serious threat to the development and sustainability of the Nigerian economy and society, as it leads to a loss of human capital, innovation, and productivity. It also creates a gap in the supply and demand of skilled labor, which affects the performance and competitiveness of various sectors and industries.

One of the sectors that is most affected by the japa trend is the human resources (HR) sector, which is responsible for managing and developing the most valuable asset of any organization: its people. The HR sector is undergoing a radical transformation as a result of innovation and disruption in the world of work, which requires HR professionals to adopt new mindsets, skills, and strategies to cope with the changing demands and expectations of the workforce and the business.

In this article, I will be sharing my insights on the future of HR in the age of innovation and disruption. This article discusses the challenges and opportunities that HR professionals face in the rapidly changing world of work, and offers practical advice for aspiring and new HR practitioners. I have also highlighted the importance and benefits of staying and working in Nigeria as an HR professional, and how to overcome the challenges and leverage the opportunities that the country offers.

Impact of Innovation and Disruption on HR

The world of work is changing faster than ever before, as technological, social, and economic forces are reshaping the way we work, learn, and live. These forces are creating new opportunities and challenges for organizations and individuals and require HR professionals to adapt and evolve accordingly.

The HR function is undergoing a radical transformation as a result of innovation and disruption in the world of work. The competition to retain top talent is not restricted to the Nigerian market; it is a worldwide concern as it becomes more difficult to retain top tech expertise in the IT business. I was conversing with an HR Professional acquaintance who mentioned that “SEE YOU TOMORROW” from an employee is no longer a statement of guarantee because the same person may be on his/her way to the airport to fly out of the country. According to a report by Deloitte, HR professionals need to adopt a new mindset and skillset to cope with the changing demands and expectations of the workforce and the business.

According to a report by the World Economic Forum, by 2025, 85 million jobs may be displaced by automation and artificial intelligence, while 97 million new roles may emerge that are more adapted to the new division of labor between humans, machines, and algorithms. This means that HR professionals need to be prepared to manage the transition and transformation of the workforce and to ensure that the skills and competencies of the employees match the needs and expectations of employers and the market.

Some of the key skills that HR professionals need to develop and foster in the age of innovation and disruption are digital literacy, data analytics, strategic thinking, and emotional intelligence . These skills can help HR professionals leverage the potential of technology, to make informed and evidence-based decisions, to align the HR strategy with the business strategy, and understand and empathize with the human element of work.

Moreover, HR professionals need to stay updated on the latest trends and developments that are influencing the future of HR, such as artificial intelligence, automation, remote work, diversity and inclusion, and employee engagement. These trends are creating new challenges and opportunities for HR professionals to attract, retain, develop, and motivate talent in the digital age.

The challenges and opportunities for HR professionals in Nigeria

Nigeria stands as a nation marked by a harmonious blend of diverse elements. Rich in resources and cultural vibrancy, our country reflects a dynamic intersection of traditions and modernity. These factors create a unique and complex context for HR professionals to operate and thrive in. One of the major challenges that HR professionals face in Nigeria is the talent gap, as Nigeria ranks 108th out of 132 countries in the Global Talent Competitiveness Index, which measures the ability of countries to attract, develop, and retain talent.

In the realm of human resources, adaptability is key. HR professionals must embody flexibility, eschewing rigidity in favor of an open-minded approach. Recognizing the diverse dynamics within the workforce, it’s imperative to tailor management styles to individual needs. Managing a Gen Z tech enthusiast requires a different approach than overseeing a Chief Technology Officer with over a decade of experience. A crucial aspect of HR’s role involves continuous evaluation and refinement of policies. If certain policies prove ineffective, it becomes essential to overhaul and introduce innovative work structures that enhance productivity. The transformative impact of the Covid era on the concept of work underscores the importance of acknowledging that people are driven by more than just financial incentives in today’s evolving professional landscape.

HR professionals need to adopt innovative and effective strategies to bridge the talent gap and enhance the employability and productivity of the workforce. Some of the strategies that HR professionals can use are to invest in education and training, to create a conducive and flexible work environment, to offer competitive and fair compensation and benefits, and to promote a positive and inclusive organizational culture .

Another factor that HR professionals should be mindful of is the regulatory environment, as Nigeria has a dynamic legal system that affects various aspects of HR, such as labor laws, taxation, and immigration. HR professionals need to be aware of and comply with the relevant laws and regulations and also advocate for reforms and improvements that benefit the HR function and society. Some of the laws and regulations that HR professionals need to be familiar with are the Labour Act, the National Minimum Wage Act, the Pension Reform Act, the Employees’ Compensation Act, and the Immigration Act.

On the other hand, one of the major opportunities that HR professionals have in Nigeria is the cultural diversity, as Nigeria is home to over 250 ethnic groups and languages, which offer a rich and varied pool of talent and perspectives. HR professionals need to leverage the cultural diversity and foster a culture of inclusion and respect in the workplace, which can enhance creativity, innovation, and collaboration. Some of the ways that HR professionals can promote diversity and inclusion are to implement fair and transparent recruitment and promotion policies, to provide cross-cultural awareness and sensitivity training, to celebrate and appreciate the differences and similarities among the employees, and to encourage and support employee resource groups and networks.

Another opportunity that HR professionals have in Nigeria is the social impact, as HR professionals can play a vital role in contributing to the sustainable development and well-being of the country and its people. HR professionals can align the HR strategy with the social and environmental goals of the organization, and also engage in corporate social responsibility and community service activities that make a positive difference. Some of the areas that HR professionals can focus on are to support education and health initiatives; reducing environmental footprint and waste, promoting ethical and responsible business practices; and partnering with local and global organizations that share the same vision and values.

Practical advice for aspiring and new HR professionals

For those who are interested in or new to the HR profession, there are several steps that can help them succeed in the age of innovation and disruption.

To embark on a successful journey as an aspiring HR professional in Nigeria, it is paramount to follow a strategic roadmap that aligns with the dynamic landscape of human resources. Here is a curated guide, emphasizing key steps in the following order:

Commence your journey by seeking valuable guidance from seasoned professionals in the HR field. Engage in meaningful conversations with established experts who can provide insights, share experiences, and offer crucial advice to navigate the nuances of this dynamic profession.

Once armed with guidance, focus on acquiring relevant certifications that can equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills essential for success in HR. Explore academic and professional programs available both locally and internationally, such as the Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management, the Professional in Human Resources International (PHRI), and the Master of Industrial and Labor Relations (MILR).

Expand your horizons by actively participating in conferences and staying informed about the latest trends in HR. Network with fellow professionals and immerse yourself in the wealth of knowledge shared at events hosted by esteemed organizations like the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM), the Nigerian Institute of Training and Development (NITAD), Association of Elite Human Resource Professionals (AEHRP), and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

Complement your formal education and certification with hands-on experience through volunteering. Engage with organizations, events, or initiatives where you can apply your burgeoning HR skills. Volunteering not only enhances your practical understanding of HR but also allows you to make a meaningful impact within the community.

By following this structured approach – seeking guidance, getting certified, attending conferences, and engaging in volunteer opportunities – you will be well-prepared to navigate the multifaceted realm of HR, making significant strides in your professional journey.

Way Forward….

The HR profession is one of the most exciting and rewarding careers in the world, especially in the age of innovation and disruption. It offers a variety of roles, responsibilities, and opportunities to make a difference in the lives of people and organizations. However, it also requires a high level of commitment, competence, and creativity to cope with the challenges and changes that the future of work brings. Therefore, HR professionals need to be prepared and equipped with the right mindset, skillset, and toolset to succeed and thrive in the HR field.

Human Resources plays a pivotal role in fostering inclusion and diversity within the workplace by championing a culture where every employee is an integral part of the business fabric. This involves affording individuals the freedom of expression, creating an environment where their voices are not only heard but valued. Furthermore, HR can actively encourage collaboration among team members, breaking down barriers and facilitating an atmosphere where diverse perspectives converge to drive innovation and success. In doing so, HR becomes a catalyst for cultivating a workplace that celebrates individuality, empowers expression, and embraces the collective strength of a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Busayo holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy from Ekiti State University, Ekiti, Nigeria, and a Master’s Degree in Industrial and Labour Relations from the University of Lagos, Nigeria. She is also an alumna of the London Business School, where she focused on Human Resources Strategy in Transforming Organisations. Furthermore, Busayo is certified by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) with a PHRi (Professional Human Resource – International) certificate, further solidifying her expertise in the field. Busayo is the Head, HR Tingo mobile; An agri-fintech company.

She believes that Nigeria has a lot of potential and opportunities for HR professionals to grow and excel, and to contribute to the development and well-being of the country and its people. In her words, she’s invites every aspiring HR Professional to reach out to her for discussion and collaboration @BusayoAyenimo via LinkedIn.