Paaras Parker, CHRO at Paycor, shares deep insights into the evolution of HR strategies over the “pandemic years”
In the wake of the unprecedented global events that unfolded over the past few years, the landscape of human resources has undergone a profound transformation. The COVID-19 pandemic has not only challenged our societal norms but has also acted as a catalyst for the evolution of HR strategies across industries. As organizations navigate the complexities of remote work, changing employee expectations, and the imperative to foster resilience, HR leaders find themselves at the helm of innovation and adaptation.
In the face of uncertainty, true leaders and engaged, efficient teams have been the architects of change, orchestrating the harmonious transition from traditional workplace structures to a dynamic, remote-friendly paradigm.
In this interview with Paaras Parker, Chief Human Resources Officer at Paycor, we delve into the intricacies of this transformative journey to explore the lessons learned, the hurdles overcome, and the insights that have emerged during these times of unprecedented challenge. The themes that underlie the metamorphosis of HR strategies in the post-pandemic era are intelligence, innovation, empathy and ingenuity.
-
Are organizations better equipped to handle remote work now? If so, how?
Organizations have made significant strides in enhancing employees’ comprehension of their objectives and the interconnectedness of their work within the broader scope. When individuals possess a clear understanding of their expectations, foster a strong sense of trust, maintain regular and meaningful connections with their teams, openly communicate their progress in meetings, and have the flexibility to adapt priorities as needed, the physical location from which they work becomes insignificant.
The ability of leaders to motivate and influence their teams, regardless of their geographical location, will undoubtedly emerge as a critical competency in the future. It is important to acknowledge that a person’s productivity and job performance are rarely indicative of their physical whereabouts.
-
How can evolved HCM tools enable success and lead to better remote employee engagement?
HCM tools offer great ways to achieve outcomes similar to those mentioned above, all while streamlining the process. These tools facilitate the creation of a sense of community by enabling seamless information sharing.
They also provide avenues for timely recognition across the entire organization, help facilitate meaningful one-on-one conversations, offer insights into the organizational structure, and enhance quarterly discussions surrounding performance, potential, and development.
-
How can RTO (return-to-office) be made easier on employees without affecting productivity?
You have to be clear on why you are returning to the office. If your teams understand why RTO is important I think they are reasonable in their expectations. If you aren’t sure or clear on why RTO is necessary – maybe you aren’t solving the right problem or focused on the right outcomes.
One early theme I am starting to see and hear about for people who are returning to the office – even when just for a few days a week – is that the office is a great place to meet! The challenge is there aren’t many quiet spaces so some people are starting to say while it’s nice to be there to see and meet with people it’s not as productive as when you are at home to do actual work.
-
Is hybrid the way forward for most industries? What trends will we see developing over this year on that front?
The way forward really is driven by the work happening in any given industry. Some require people to be onsite – period – and that is what we will see continue. The work requirements should continue to drive where people do their work.
Latest Hrtech Insights: MDM Software in 2024: Addressing Challenges of the Near Future in Corporate Devices
As organizations continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of hybrid work, it becomes evident that the key to success lies not just in the tools employed but in the mindset cultivated. The insights shared in this Q&A underscore the progress made in enhancing employee comprehension of roles, goals and strategies, fostering trust, and maintaining meaningful connections, irrespective of physical locations.
Evolved HCM tools emerge as critical enablers in sustaining this newfound dynamic. By seamlessly facilitating information sharing, fostering a sense of community, and offering valuable insights, these tools not only streamline processes but also contribute to a more engaged and connected remote/hybrid workforce.
Acknowledging the varying sentiments surrounding productivity in office-versus-remote settings, it becomes evident that the key to a successful RTO lies in addressing the ‘why’ and ensuring that employees understand the purpose behind the return.
As we look to the future, it is clear that the trends shaping the workplace will be dictated by the nature of the work itself. The focus on outcomes, purpose-driven decisions, and continued reliance on evolving technologies will guide organizations towards a more flexible, dynamic, and employee-centric future.
Read More About Hrtech : Untraditional Ways to Discover Tech Talent and Promising Software Projects
[To share your insights with us, please write to pghosh@itechseries.com ]
Paaras is committed to building on and expanding Paycor’s dynamic culture, recruiting and developing talented people, and giving them an opportunity to succeed.
Paaras joined Paycor in 2022 from Kroger, where she most recently served as Head of HR for 84.51°, Kroger’s technology & digital and alternative profit unit. Paaras is a seasoned leader with deep experience in talent acquisition, organizational and leadership development, diversity, equity & inclusion and learning and has held high-level HR roles at Macy’s and Global Novations. Paaras holds a B.S. in Liberal Arts from Miami University.
Paycor is one of the leading human capital management (HCM) software providers, aimed to modernize every aspect of people management, from recruiting, onboarding, and payroll to career development and retention. For more than 30 years, they have been partnering with leaders to build a unified HR platform, with easy integration with third-party apps, powerful analytics, talent development tools, and configurable technology that supports specific industry needs.