Data analysis is used to drive sales, marketing and even product development. It helps companies determine areas of inefficiency and aids in improving customer experiences. Data analysis is also helpful for human resources departments. Tracking recruitment figures, career progression statistics, productivity, staff satisfaction and even employee absenteeism can provide valuable insights.
Don’t just gather the numbers
Human resources departments have been gathering data for decades. But are you gathering data just to say you have it? Or are you using it to truly analyze and understand what’s going on with your hiring practices, current talent and previous employees? HR managers are tasked with managing an incredible about of data – including some personal information. Using such data creates some legal and ethical concerns, but when done correctly can provide some of the most valuable insights for an HR team.
For years, HR departments have been guilty of gathering large amounts of data into charts, tables and graphs without really taking a close look at what those numbers truly meant. Now, data is being more carefully analyzed – both with today’s technology and by humans – to get a clearer picture of many candidate and employee related issues. When human resources departments make data-driven, informed decisions, that leads to more successful recruitment, happier employees and better processes and procedures. It enhances your company culture.
Don’t forget the personal touch
Of course, no human resources department should ever only focus on the data. After all, people are at the heart of what HR departments do each day. No matter how many tools or technologies we have available, human interaction with others and human interpretation of gathered data is critical to success. Even though the roles and functions of human resources departments continue to growth and change with each passing year, it is important to remember the “people” component of the human resources function. Personal connections allow for truthful data analysis and lead to relationships and outcomes that are of true value to businesses.
Do you need help with data analysis, talent management, performance evaluations or do you have other human resources needs? Contact the experts at Wild Coffee HR today. We love partnering with companies to help them thrive. It’s what we do.