AI approach could shift staff recruitment and retention in regional Australia
Working at one of the world’s biggest computing companies for more than four decades has given Nades Nadeswaran a passion for people.
In particular, the software engineer turned researcher wants to ensure people get the right tech to thrive in the workplace.
For his PhD (Industry) at CQUniversity, Nades is asking how recruiting employees in regional Australia can be streamlined with AI – to maximise time for human connection.
The Sydney-based academic is asking business leaders and human resources professionals in Newcastle, NSW, to share their experiences for his study.
“My passion has always been to enable organisational environments where employees can excel while adopting and using appropriate technology and tools,” he explained.
Tech tool uptake
Retiring from his 44-year career at IBM in 2023, Nades managed people and projects in his role, but often wondered what prevented businesses from adopting new systems and tools.
“In particular, I’m focusing on artificial intelligence in HR processes, to attract and retain employees for regional businesses,” he explained.
Nades hopes a balanced approach to AI might give regional businesses an edge, as they battle to find quality candidates.
“I’m asking business leaders about their experiences using AI in recruitment, what might make them reluctant to use AI, and also how streamlining processes could create space for more personal connection with potential recruits,” he said.
“If they can let AI tools analyse the CVs, then they can spend more time on the actual people!”
Staying human
He highlights that final decisions for selection and hiring should also be performed by managers and not by AI tools.
“That gives new recruits a real opportunity for deep engagement when they are on-boarded and improves job satisfaction and retention right from the recruitment stage.”
Nades is seeking general managers and human resources managers, directors, and operations managers to participate in phone or Zoom interviews for the research.
To express interest, email n.nadeswaran@cqumail.com and request further information.
Learn more about CQUniversity research pathways at the Research Higher Degree website.
