Why you might need an actual HR expert rather than AI
There’s no denying that AI can sometimes make life a LOT easier. From writing social media posts for your business to answering our every day questions, we understand how it can be tempting to turn to AI when you need a helping hand with HR. After all, why would you pay for professional advice when you can get it for free via AI?
It can definitely be a great starting point, but relying on it in order to manage your people could leave your business in some tricky situations. Here's why having an actual human HR expert (like us!) in your corner still matters…
HR isn’t always straightforward
HR is usually about the people, not just the procedure! HR issues are usually more complex than they first seem. For example, you might have an employee who is regularly absent from work and while plugging your problem into AI can give you a general idea of a solution with some relevant law and legislation to support it, it can’t take into consideration the real person and what they might be dealing with.
It takes a real person and HR expert to ask the right questions, consider circumstances and work out next steps.
AI can’t build relationships
It takes time to build relationships with your line managers and employees, and everyone is different and experiences different situations. AI can’t build those relationships, understand people’s different quirks or have difficult conversations with them the same way a real human can.
AI doesn’t have heart
AI chat bots are very matter of fact and lack empathy for people or situations. Conversations with employees about wellbeing, feedback or other issues require emotional intelligence, empathy and understanding and more importantly, listening. AI cannot make professional judgments, that’s your job as the business owner and line manager (with HR’s help of course).
While things might change in the future, currently AI doesn’t have the capacity to understand tone, intention or lived experience.
You can’t bounce ideas off AI
It’s extremely helpful for business owners to have other people they can bounce ideas off and get different perspectives from.
Having a HR expert on board can help you take a step back and consider consequences and risks before making an informed decision.
AI can offer suggestions, but it doesn't have the same professional accountability or understanding of your business and its people.
While there is a place for AI in helping small businesses, whether that’s helping you draft communications or getting a simple understanding of HR-related topics, it shouldn’t be your only source of advice when making important decisions concerning your employees and business in general.
Think of it more as a helpful assistant rather than your only HR support. When situations are complex, sensitive or carry some legal risks, it’s always best to have an experienced HR advisor on board.
Whether you're dealing with a tricky employee situation or simply want to make sure your HR processes are up to scratch, we're here to help. Get in touch to find out more about our HR support for small businesses and how we can take some of the stress out of managing your people.