Director of Data Science @ Amazon | Global Head of Talent Acquisition Science & Analytics
"How do you attract scientists to HR roles? Must be a hard sell!" I answered this question last week as a panel member at Amazon's Machine Learning Conference. After all, how does one sell top-tier data scientists and researchers on the world of HR and people analytics? Well, let me tell you - it's not as difficult as you might think. In fact, I'd argue it's one of the most exciting and impactful areas of applied science out there. You see, at Amazon's People Experience and Technology org (that's HR with a heavy tech twist), we have over 250 scientists working on some of the most fascinating people-focused challenges imaginable. A big advantage of working in people analytics at Amazon is the sheer scale of data and opportunity for groundbreaking insights. Where else can you find a dataset of 1.5 million new hires per year? It's a data scientist's dream come true. But it's not just about the data - it's about the impact. The work we do shapes the employee experience for current and future Amazonians worldwide. It's about using rigorous science to solve real-world problems and make a tangible difference in people's lives. So if you're a curious, analytically-minded individual looking to apply your skills in a high-stakes, high-impact environment, I'd urge you to consider a career in people analytics. It may just be the most fulfilling and exciting scientific adventure you'll ever embark on. I am re-posting an article I wrote a few years ago, it is just as relevant today. Let me know if you'd like to learn more and join the movement - I'd be happy to chat! #peopleanalytics #HR #careers #science #analytics https://lnkd.in/gny9je5G
Love this! Thanks for answering my email and being curious to learn more. Love having you at Amazon.
Coming from neuroscience, moving into HR seemed unexpected, but HR today is highly data-driven. I didn’t leave science; I applied it to understanding human potential at scale. At Allianz Technology, people analytics drive impactful talent development programs. For scientists, this field offers the chance to solve complex problems with measurable outcomes. It’s a perfect space for those who love analyzing data and driving real-world results. You’re still a scientist, just applying your skills to shape the future of work.
Ashish Parulekar it is so great to see the field of people analytics being recognised and being given the importance it deserves! I have been trying to learn more and more about this field by taking classes, doing projects and going to meetups! For my Capstone project, I worked with Mr. Chandan Golla, the Co-Founder of Included.ai to Establish a Standardized DEI Reporting Format for Organizational Accountability. This project was a huge step into the people analytics space and made me realise the value of DEI. I would love to chat with you about people analytics if you are interested!
I love seeing HR embracing data-driven decision-making! You and your team are a fantastic example of how science can positively impact TA by reducing bias and improving efficiency. This post (almost) makes me want to end my career pause & get back in TA ??
You hit the nail on the head. Quantity, quality and availability of data, combined wit organization being ready to use the data are attractive aspects of data science. Many companies have wealth of data but are not equipped to use it, or simply there’s lack of data base focus from leadership to drive that.
It’s fascinating to see the intersection of data science and HR. Your insights into how impactful people analytics can be are truly inspiring. What do you think are some of the key skills that scientists should focus on to thrive in this field?
Absolutely love this perspective and the pitch.
You definitely got one person to jump aboard. And I am loving it!
Next time I get to see you, I’d love to hear more from you. Certainly not for me (I’m not your target audience here) but am interested in how you think about this organizationally.
Thank you for sharing your insights on attracting scientists to HR roles. The intersection of people analytics and science indeed holds incredible potential for transforming the employee experience. It’s fascinating to consider how leveraging large datasets can lead to meaningful impacts on workplace culture and effectiveness. Engaging with data-driven individuals in this field may not only advance organizational goals but also refine the science of human interactions. How do you see the role of storytelling in making data relatable and appealing to potential candidates?