The 'H' in 'HR': Embracing Emotional Intelligence in the Age of AI

In an era where Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the workplace, the significance of Emotional Intelligence (EI) often comes into question. Amidst the technological advancements and the drive to keep up with the latest trends, there's a risk of overlooking the fundamental human aspects in the professional world.

This notion was profoundly underscored during an experience I had in Human Resources. The task at hand was a familiar, albeit uncomfortable one: to conduct a meeting with an employee asking him to go due to a role mismatch. Armed with my training, I entered the room. My checklist of dos and don'ts was clear – keep the meeting brief, avoid overly sympathetic tones, yet remain warm and respectful. Based on my background information, I anticipated a straightforward, uneventful 10-minute discussion. However, this encounter was about to challenge every preconceived notion I had.

The employee, a man not known for hostility, revealed something that rendered my well-rehearsed script meaningless. He had been diagnosed with cancer, with an estimated six months to live. Suddenly, the corporate agenda faded into insignificance. What mattered was the human being sitting across from me, confronted with the fragility of life.

Letting instinct take over, I set aside the HR protocols. "Tell me how you're feeling," I asked, genuinely wanting to understand his world that had so drastically changed. The conversation that ensued wasn't about job performance or company policies; it was about his deepest fears, hopes, and the reality of his mortality. It was a dialogue that lasted over an hour, touching upon his aspirations and the courage with which he faced his uncertain future.

This interaction didn't just redefine my approach to the meeting; it reshaped my perspective on my role in HR. No longer was it solely about adherence to policies and procedures; it became about providing genuine support and understanding. I offered to assist him in whatever capacity I could, including flexible working arrangements and medical support, committing to stand by him in his challenging journey.

As I returned to my office, my thoughts lingered on the indispensable role of emotional intelligence in HR. In a world increasingly dominated by AI, it's the human connection, the capacity for empathy and emotional understanding, that remains irreplaceable. AI may streamline processes, but it may not replicate the human element essential in addressing and understanding complex personal issues.

This experience was a stark reminder of the true essence of the 'H' in 'HR'. It's not just a reference to the human component in a transactional sense, but a call to uphold and cherish our humanity - the ability to connect, empathize, and support each other.