AI, HR, and the Future of Work: with Tony Buffum

The world of work is undergoing a seismic shift, and at the heart of this transformation is the role of Human Resources (HR). It's a domain ripe for innovation, more now than ever. This was the core of my recent conversation with Tony Buffum , VP of HR Client Strategy at UpWork, a figure synonymous with pioneering change in the HR landscape. Here’s an extended look into our conversation that not only offers deep insights but also feels like a friendly chat over coffee.

Imran Syed (IS): Meeting you is a highlight, Tony. After founding Hatchproof I've been on a mission to talk to influential minds in the HR space. Your journey at UpWork is fascinating. How would you encapsulate the essence of your work and its current phase?

Tony Buffum (TB): It's a pleasure, Imran. I'm living my dream at UpWork. What began as a customer's passion has blossomed into a role that lets me interact with a diverse group of customers, partners, and leaders daily. The future of work is an exciting and ever-evolving canvas, and I'm thrilled to be a part of that movement with Upwork .?

IS: It sounds like a fulfilling journey. In our quest for meaningful work, many of us aim to realize our fullest potential, akin to reaching the pinnacle of Maslow's hierarchy – self-actualization. In this context, I believe HR's strategic role has never been more crucial. What's your perspective on this, especially in light of recent shifts in the work environment?

TB: Imran, you've hit the nail on the head. The traditional view of HR as policy-centric is outdated. At a recent conference, I encouraged leaders to pivot their focus from policy-making to leveraging AI for strategic HR objectives.? This is where the real transformation lies. In an exercise I was leading I asked the room to brainstorm where AI and HR could converge, however what I found was that most of the room still centered the conversation around what policies and guard rails they need to put in place for AI. They were still missing the point. In fact, it would be easier to have ChatGPT write that policy and they shift their focus on how AI can improve the HR mission.

IS: That's a powerful shift in perspective. Often, HR is pigeonholed as a bureaucratic entity, but there’s so much more potential. With AI becoming increasingly integral, how do you perceive its role in reshaping HR?

TB: We're definitely aligned on this. The excitement about AI in HR circles is palpable, yet there's a gap in its practical application. HR needs to be the storyteller, narrating how AI can redefine their role and contribute significantly to the organizational narrative. The risk of not adapting is significant – HR could miss out on defining its critical role in the executive suite. The surge in HR tech solutions is a harbinger of this transformative era.

IS: With the proliferation of specialized HR tools and integrated tech ecosystems, what trends do you foresee in HR technology, especially considering budget constraints?

TB: This is a real challenge for HR leaders – securing budget and demonstrating the value of technology investments. While some HR tools are viewed as optional, the importance of integration cannot be overstated. It's often more feasible to secure funding for individual components rather than a comprehensive system.

IS: What are the current trends in hiring and staffing in the context of Generative AI and tight talent markets? TB:? The trend of hiring and staffing based on specific skills and capabilities is rapidly gaining traction, particularly in sectors influenced by Generative AI and characterized by competitive talent markets. As companies strive to address skill shortages within their existing teams or projects, the traditional reliance on dedicated, full-time, in-house roles is becoming increasingly obsolete. This shift reflects a strategic move towards more flexible and targeted employment models, aligning workforce capabilities directly with organizational needs.

IS: As we wrap up, what final thoughts would you like to share with our readers, especially those navigating these changes in HR?

TB: The journey of HR in the modern workplace is one of transformation and opportunity. It's about embracing new tools, new thinking, and new ways of working. For those in HR and beyond, this is a time to be bold, to be innovative, and to redefine what it means to contribute to an organization's success.

If you are interested in having a conversation and talking about the future of work connect with me Imran Syed . I want to hear your story and you'd be surprised at how many more people out there do too.