The use of AI has become ubiquitous in recent years, and so has HR. While AI has simplified the way HR professionals work, there are many challenges to be addressed, considering the ethical implications of using AI in human resource management.
What are the ethical considerations related to AI in HR?
Mitigating bias in AI decisions
AI systems learn from vast amounts of data, and if that data contains bias, the AI can learn and perpetuate that bias. A non-neutral AI system can make many decisions that are inherently unfair. For example, an AI model can generate sexist job descriptions if the training data is biased. Resumes containing specific keywords can gain an unfair advantage if the AI model places greater emphasis on specific skills. Without human intervention, there is a risk that these biases will trickle down to HR decision-making.
Privacy in the Age of AI
With the advancement of AI, monitoring remote employee productivity has become stricter than ever. This puts employees’ fundamental right to privacy at risk. While some AI tools are trained to eliminate sensitive information from candidates and employees, others can still use this information for machine learning and training purposes. HR professionals must create an AI framework that anonymizes critical data to avoid putting employees at risk.
Ensuring transparency in AI processes
Implementing AI in the workplace can be a boon to make quick decisions and provide actionable recommendations/insights, but there is no way to understand how that decision is made. This can lead to employee distrust. HR professionals should strive to provide detailed information on the factors that led to that decision, especially when it is a decision made by AI.
Maintaining Human Oversight in AI
Even with the advent of AI, it is prudent to retain the human element of HR. AI can be an enabler, but it should not replace humans. Creating a human-centric approach in HR helps organizations protect against extreme AI interventions. This helps foster healthier work environments and build trust among employees.
In summary
The implementation of AI in HR has certainly impacted the way HR professionals work. With most of the tasks being automated by HR, it becomes imperative for HR professionals to add a human touch to the outcomes of these tasks. The ethical considerations of AI in HR will have a significant impact on every aspect of the employee journey in the organization, with HR professionals being the sentinel.
