2024-11-22 13:28:00
Last week, the Centre Beaulieu in Lausanne buzzed with energy as HR professionals from across Switzerland convened for the annual HR lounge Human Resources conference. This two-day event brought together industry leaders, innovators, and practitioners to exchange insights on the ever-evolving challenges and opportunities in the field of human resources.
Dynamic Discussions and Key Themes
The conference tackled pressing topics across multiple themes, including:
- Digital transformation
- Employee well-being
- Diversity and inclusion
- Talent acquisition and retention
- Sustainability and ethics
AI and digital innovation were recurring themes throughout the sessions. The advantages of AI in facilitating recruitment, assessing leadership styles, and creating successful teams were explored.
However, the dynamic presentation by headhunter Guillaume Alexander of Gates Solutions truly stole the show. With a packed audience craning their necks to catch his keynote address, Alexander predicted exponential transformation in the workplace between 2025 and 2028.
He highlighted how automation could render many jobs redundant, making soft skills increasingly critical as AI replaces numerous hard skills. Citing a Gallup pollhe noted that while 67 percent of employees have never used AI, almost half of those who do report significantly increased productivity. Alexander’s speech underscored the urgent need for education and upskilling in AI to facilitate its broader adoption.
In another impactful session, Agnieszka Bala of the energy trading company Gunvor shared actionable strategies for fostering inclusivity and diversity. Drawing on concrete examples from her workplace—a traditionally male and non-diverse industry—her presentation resonated with attendees seeking tangible solutions for creating equitable environments.
Interactive Workshops and Practical Insights
Salon RH’s emphasis on interactivity set it apart. A digital detox workshop by Mario Sgarrella of unpluggo encouraged participants to declutter their digital lives, with live demonstrations of app deletion. Attendees also explored team-building ideas and solutions to workplace challenges, including legal aspects such as office conflicts and sexual harassment.
Recognising Excellence
A highlight of the event was the The Best Workplaces in Switzerland 2023 awards ceremony. Geneva-based tech firm Brightknown for simplifying business management, took the top prize. Other notable winners from Geneva included Interiman recruitment specialists, Piguet Galland Bank, the InterContinental and Crowne Plaza hotels, and EMS Les Marronniers. These awards celebrated organisations that have prioritised innovation, inclusivity, and employee satisfaction.
Fuel for Networking
The event provided ample networking opportunities. Attendees rekindled old connections and made new ones over coffee. Thoughtfully located water stations, sponsored by Kärcherensured everyone stayed hydrated, while FELFEL kept energy levels high with offerings such as healthy salmon poke bowls and indulgent brownies.
A Memorable Conclusion
As the event ended, attendees departed with smiles, business cards, and fresh ideas. Some lingered for a relaxing aperitif, while others, like myself, took the opportunity to explore the Titanic exhibition in the hall below. Whether brainstorming the future of HR or building new connections, Salon RH 2024 proved to be a dynamic forum for professional growth and innovation.
The momentum of this year’s event sets the stage for next year’s forum to offer innovative solutions to the ever-evolving challenges of the HR landscape.
Images: Nesrin Everett
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What key messages did Guillaume Alexander emphasize regarding the future of work during his keynote at the HR Show 2024?
**Interview with Guillaume Alexander: Keynote Speaker at the HR Show 2024**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Guillaume. You delivered a powerful keynote address at the HR Show 2024 in Lausanne. What were some of the key messages you wanted to convey regarding the future of work?
**Guillaume Alexander:** Thank you for having me. My primary message revolved around the rapid transformation we’re witnessing in the workplace due to automation and AI. I believe that by 2028, many jobs will undergo significant changes—some may become obsolete, while others will require entirely new skill sets. Therefore, the emphasis on developing soft skills is crucial, as they will become increasingly important as hard skills may be replaced by technology.
**Interviewer:** That sounds like an important shift. You mentioned in your talk that a substantial number of employees are yet to use AI tools. How do you think companies can accelerate the adoption of AI among their workforce?
**Guillaume Alexander:** Absolutely. According to a Gallup poll I referenced, 67% of employees have never used AI, but among those who do, productivity has increased significantly. Companies need to invest in education and training to demystify AI and showcase its benefits. Workshops and hands-on demonstrations can make a huge difference in getting employees comfortable with these tools.
**Interviewer:** You also focused on the challenges of fostering inclusivity. How do you believe organizations can create more equitable environments, especially in industries that are traditionally less diverse?
**Guillaume Alexander:** That’s an essential part of our discussion. Agnieszka Bala’s session at the conference provided excellent strategies for fostering inclusivity in workplaces like the energy sector, which has historically lacked diversity. Organizations must implement concrete initiatives that promote diversity at all levels— from hiring practices to creating supportive networks. It’s about making a commitment and holding leadership accountable.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, you highlighted the importance of soft skills in the future workforce. What are some specific soft skills you believe will gain prominence as we move forward?
**Guillaume Alexander:** Soft skills such as emotional intelligence, adaptability, and effective communication will be crucial. As jobs evolve, the ability to work collaboratively, resolve conflicts, and think creatively will differentiate high-performing employees. Companies should integrate soft skills training into their development programs to prepare their teams for these changes.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Guillaume. Your insights are invaluable as we navigate the complexities of the modern workplace. We look forward to seeing how these trends will shape the future of human resources.
**Guillaume Alexander:** Thank you for having me; it was a pleasure sharing my thoughts!
