In the rapidly evolving landscape of work, where remote operations are becoming the norm, human resources managers find themselves at the forefront of adapting to new technologies. With the profound shift toward remote work, HR professionals need to equip themselves with a diverse set of tools to effectively manage and lead their teams. This article explores four crucial types of tools that are essential for HR managers in the era of remote work, providing insights into their importance and some specific examples.
1. Video Conferencing Tools
In the age of remote work, video conferencing tools have become indispensable for HR professionals. Alan Collins, former VP of Human Resources at PepsiCo, emphasises the enduring importance of in-person interviewing skills while acknowledging the rising significance of video interviews. To excel in this area, HR managers should be adept at using tools like Skype, LiveMeeting, Zoom, and Webex. These platforms not only facilitate virtual interviews but also enhance overall communication within remote teams.
2. Trusted VPN Service
As remote work exposes teams to cybersecurity risks, HR managers need to prioritise data protection. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a crucial tool that encrypts company data and ensures secure online interactions. This enhances privacy and safeguards the sensitive information of remote teams, underscoring the importance of integrating a trusted VPN service into the remote work infrastructure.
3. Remote Team Collaboration and Onboarding Tools
Efficient collaboration within remote teams requires more than traditional communication channels. HR managers should master tools like Google Drive for collaborative document creation, Slack for instant group messaging, Dropbox for seamless file sharing, and Docusign for efficient contract handling. Additionally, platforms like iSmartRecruit, utilising artificial intelligence, can aid in social media based recruitment strategies, further streamlining HR processes in the digital landscape.
4. Employee Assessment Tests
With the increasing prevalence of remote hiring, HR managers face the challenge of evaluating candidates without in-person interactions. Employee assessment tests become crucial in such scenarios. Tools like Myers-Briggs Personality Type Indicator, Enneagram Tests, TestGorilla, CodeSignal, Owiwi, WonScore, and HireQuotient offer diverse assessments, ranging from personality tests to skills-based evaluations, aiding HR professionals in making informed hiring decisions.
In conclusion, the tools outlined above represent a foundational toolkit for HR managers navigating the complexities of remote work. As the workplace continues to evolve, mastery of these tools becomes integral for HR professionals to effectively lead and manage remote teams. Beyond these specialised tools, a standard set of workplace essentials, such as telephones, computers, and internet connections, remains crucial. Embracing these tools not only ensures the continued success of HR professionals but also contributes to the overall efficiency and adaptability of organisations in the digital age.