Finding time for innovation and creativity is now essential to effective employee retention strategies, emphasized speakers at SHRM’s annual conference in San Diego.
Reagan Kelley, HR consulting director at Marsh McLennan Agency, warned that AI won’t replace jobs, but employees who use AI may replace those who don’t.
She explained that tools like ChatGPT are just the beginning. Today’s professionals need to use AI for scheduling, transcription, grammar checking, and task management to increase efficiency.
Instead of exchanging multiple emails to arrange meetings, platforms like Calendly simplify the process. “It books directly on my calendar,” Kelley said. “I don’t need to think. It prevents mistakes.”
Kelley, along with Katie Dykstra, client engagement director at Marsh McLennan, identified AI adoption, workforce upskilling, and flexible work models as key HR innovation trends in 2024.
Importantly, Kelley stressed that employee retention improves when organizations invest in learning and growth. “People stay where they feel their development matters,” she noted.
Dykstra added that employers must engage all six working generations. That includes offering internal mobility, cross-functional training, and continuous learning opportunities.
“Curiosity and innovation have faded in recent years,” Dykstra said. “We’ve been reactive for too long. It’s time to reignite creative thinking.”
To support that shift, HR leaders should embrace creativity—even in small ways. “Pick up a coloring book if needed,” Kelley advised. “It doesn’t have to be for adults. Just make space for creativity.”
Together, Kelley and Dykstra urged companies to use HR innovation as a tool not just for efficiency but for long-term employee retention strategies.
Want more marketing news and the latest excellence stories? Visit MarTech News for insights, trends, and expert updates.
News Source: Hrdive.com
