The use of AI in HR technology is a rapidly growing field, and as the #IAMPHENOM conversation with Keith Sonderling, Commissioner at the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), demonstrated, it’s essential to ensure that we use it in the right way and for the right purposes. The implementation of AI in the workplace should not only focus on enhancing productivity and reducing errors, but also on promoting transparency and fairness in employment decisions.
Here are my top three takeaways from that conversation:
1. Making the process more transparent: One of the most significant concerns surrounding AI is the potential for bias in algorithms. However, rather than being daunted by the inner workings of these algorithms, we should focus on what we know – the results. By making the process more transparent, AI can help employers take a skills-based approach and make good decisions. This not only benefits the employer but also the employee, who can see the factors that went into the decision.
2. The role of the human decision-makers: The role of human decision-makers is critical in the world of AI and automation, as the ultimate responsibility for the final decision falls on the employers. Machines can handle many tasks, but they may not be able to recognize when an employee needs help. This is where HR professionals and managers need to be present to ensure human interaction, especially in situations that require empathy and understanding.
3. The potential of AI: The true potential of AI lies in its ability to help us solve some of society’s most pressing issues, such as discrimination in the workplace. AI can help achieve this goal by removing the historical biases that have plagued employment decisions for decades. By implementing AI systems that focus on skills-based approaches, rather than personal characteristics like race or religion, we can help eliminate biases that have prevented many qualified individuals from advancing in their careers.
It’s essential to address the roadblocks that prevent the mass implementation of this technology and to spur innovation and create software that can help us eliminate bias in the workplace. Whether you’re a vendor or an employer, it’s important to join in on the conversation, share your concerns, and work towards a better and more inclusive future for all.
In conclusion, the use of AI in the workplace is a complex topic that requires open and honest discussions. As we move towards a more technology-driven future, it’s important to consider the impact of AI on discrimination in the workplace. By using AI in the right way and for the right purposes, we can promote transparency and fairness in employment decisions and create a more equitable future for all.