Tag: HR

Harnessing Employee Advocacy: Boosting Brand Reputation and Attracting Top Talent

In today’s dynamic and competitive marketplace, companies constantly seek innovative strategies to stand out. One such powerful strategy is employee advocacy, which not only enhances a company’s reputation but also plays a pivotal role in attracting top talent. By leveraging the authentic voices of employees, organisations can build trust, gain engagement, and create a compelling employer brand that resonates with both customers and potential hires.

Employee advocacy is a strategic approach where employees actively promote their company’s brand, products, or services through their personal social media channels and networks. Essentially, employees become brand ambassadors, humanising the brand and making it more relatable and trustworthy in the eyes of customers. 

Employee advocacy goes beyond mere promotion; it creates a sense of ownership and pride among employees, strengthening their connection to the organisation. Engaged employees who actively promote the brand often feel that their contributions influence the company’s success. This heightened engagement leads to more open communication and active idea-sharing within the organisation, creating a vibrant and innovative workplace culture.

Moreover, employee advocacy is crucial for retaining top talent. Employees who feel personally invested in their organisation’s success are less likely to seek opportunities elsewhere. According to LinkedIn, 75% of job seekers consider an employer’s brand before even applying for a job, highlighting the importance of a strong, positive employer brand in attracting and retaining talent.

Business Benefits of Employee Advocacy

Implementing an employee advocacy program offers numerous benefits for businesses, particularly in the B2B sector:

  • Enhanced Brand Reach: Your brand’s content can reach a wider audience through employees’ networks. Employees have, on average, 10 times more connections on LinkedIn than their companies’ followers, exponentially increasing the brand’s visibility.
  • Increased Credibility: Messages shared by employees are perceived as more credible and authentic. Forbes shows that 52% of consumers trust employees more than the company itself, enhancing the brand’s reputation.
  • Lead Generation: Employee advocacy can drive traffic to your website and encourage engagement, directly contributing to lead generation. Additionally, 91% of B2B sales are influenced in some way by word of mouth (Demandbase).
  • Cost-Effective Marketing: Leveraging existing resources by empowering employees to promote the brand is a cost-effective marketing strategy.
  • Competitive Advantage: In a crowded B2B market, a strong employee advocacy program can set your organisation apart as an industry leader.

When employees speak positively about their workplace, it humanises the brand and builds credibility. 72% of enterprise companies work with internal executives to grow thought leadership, with 90% focused on building credibility and social influence (TopRank Marketing). This not only enhances the brand’s reputation but also attracts like-minded talent.

It is a powerful tool in recruitment efforts. Job seekers today are looking for transparent and relatable views of a company’s culture. 4 out of 5 LinkedIn members drive business decisions (Sprout Social), making platforms like LinkedIn ideal for employee advocacy. 81% of B2B buyers value LinkedIn as a significant source of research before purchase (Fronetics), further emphasising its importance.

Employee-generated content, such as personal stories and social media updates, provides a transparent view of the company culture, helping prospective employees envision themselves within the organisation. This sense of community and authenticity makes the company an attractive place to work, setting it apart in the competitive job market.

LinkedIn stands out as a prime platform for employee advocacy due to its professional focus and extensive reach. Employees on LinkedIn have, on average, 10 times more connections than their companies’ followers, allowing for organic amplification of messages. Additionally, 75% of job seekers consider an employer’s brand before applying, and 15% of buyers consult vendor-driven marketing materials when purchasing (TrustRadius).

By encouraging employees to actively engage on LinkedIn, companies can tap into a trusted platform that significantly boosts their brand presence and recruitment efforts.

Leveraging Technology to Shape Skills for Future Workforce

In a world where technology reshapes industries overnight, staying ahead means not just adapting to changes but anticipating them. As India strides into the future, a range of technologies are redefining career landscapes, creating exciting new opportunities and roles. This evolution demands a workforce that is not only tech-savvy but also versatile and forward-thinking.

Pioneering New Careers

The job market is undergoing a transformation driven by technologies such as Spatial Computing, Generative AI, and Cloud Computing. These technologies are not just enhancements to our existing frameworks; they are gateways to entirely new career domains. For example, the rise of Spatial Computing and the Industrial Metaverse is crafting roles such as VR developers and metaverse infrastructure engineers. India is well-positioned to lead the world in spatial computing, with sales expected to reach US$2.1 billion in 2024 and a CAGR of 40.03% through 2030. Similarly, Generative AI is generating professions like AI ethicists and creative AI trainers, reflecting the deepening integration of AI across sectors. India is also leading the way in AI adoption, with a 2.7x increase in AI-driven activities projected for 2023–2024. In fact, to prepare for an AI-driven future, over 650,000 employees are set to undergo training in the sector.

Cloud computing continues to demand a robust workforce of cloud architects and security specialists, ensuring that data and services are securely transitioned to platforms. Additionally, the blockchain technology boom is creating a need for skilled blockchain developers and consultants to navigate the decentralised digital world. As data becomes the new currency, the demand for data scientists and analysts who can interpret and utilise data effectively is skyrocketing. Moreover, the need for cybersecurity expertise highlights the focus on securing digital assets in an increasingly connected world.

Educational Shifts to Equip the Digital Age Workforce

Recognising the pace of technological advancements, educational institutions are reimagining their curricula to include skills that align with future market demands. The implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 marks a significant step towards modernising and democratising education. This policy encourages a shift from traditional rote learning to competency-based education (CBE), emphasising skills like critical thinking and problem-solving.

Institutions are now fostering environments that support entrepreneurship and technological empowerment through courses tailored to fields like AI and robotics. The focus on adaptive learning techniques and the integration of formative assessments cater to personalised student learning journeys, preparing them for real-world challenges.

Government Initiatives Bolstering Skill Development

The government is playing a crucial role in catalysing skill development relevant to an evolving technological job market. Initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) are cornerstone efforts in enhancing vocational training and ensuring that the youth is job-ready for tomorrow. These initiatives are complemented by technology-driven projects that streamline skill development processes, making them more accessible and effective.

Moreover, policies like the Convergence Policy illustrate a holistic approach, integrating skill development across various sectors, ensuring a broad-based growth in workforce capabilities. The emphasis on building capacity, particularly in technologically underserved regions, is preparing a geographically diverse talent pool equipped to handle future shifts.

Corporate Champions of Technology Training

Companies are not mere spectators in this technological evolution; they are active participants and often pioneers in nurturing tech-focused talent. From AI in retail customer experiences to robotics in waste management, enterprises are leveraging cutting-edge technologies to solve real-world problems. Companies like Qure.ai are transforming accessibility in healthcare through AI, showcasing the potential of technology to also enhance lives.

These examples highlight how businesses are aligning their operational goals with training initiatives, ensuring their teams are proficient in the latest technological advancements. This synergy between corporate objectives and employee skill development is crucial for sustaining innovation and competitive advantage in a global landscape.

As India gears up for a future dominated by technology, the alignment of educational strategies, government policies, and corporate training programs with the anticipated shifts in the job market is critical. This approach in cultivating a workforce ready for tomorrow’s challenges will position India as a global hub for talent and innovation. It will also ensure that the country’s demographic dividend is fully leveraged in the digital age. The journey is complex, but with focus and collaborative efforts, India is paving a path towards a technologically empowered future.

Equipping Workforce With Skills for the Future 

In India’s ever-evolving job market, new careers fueled by technological advancements and shifting economic priorities bring a blend of opportunities and challenges. As we look toward the next decade, industries like technology, healthcare, and renewable energy are touted to transform the employment landscape. This transformation will create new roles and demand fresh skills and adaptive learning strategies, making it an exciting time for job seekers and professionals.

Emerging Sectors Shaping the Job Market

India’s economic blueprint is steering towards an innovation-driven future. Sectors like Technology, Healthcare, Renewable Energy, E-commerce, and Fintech are at the forefront of generating new job types. For example, the technology sector is growing with roles centred around digital transformation, requiring skills in software development, data analytics, and system integration. Similarly, the healthcare sector is expanding beyond traditional roles due to technological integration. An increased focus on preventive care is demanding an expertise in biotechnology and health informatics.

As the renewable energy sector gains momentum, driven by global sustainability goals, it promises a surge in demand for specialists in solar energy technology, wind energy analysis, and sustainable project management. Moreover, the rise of e-commerce platforms demands proficiency in digital marketing, supply chain optimisation, and cybersecurity.

Critical Skills for Tomorrow’s Jobs

Navigating the future job market requires a focus on developing a set of skills that align with technological advancements and industry demands. Data analysis and interpretation are becoming fundamental across sectors, enabling professionals to make informed decisions and drive business strategies. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning are becoming the backbone of innovation, finding applications in everything from customer service bots to complex disease diagnosis systems.

Moreover, the emphasis on cybersecurity reflects the need to safeguard digital infrastructures, making it a critical area of expertise. Additionally, as the fintech sector flourishes, skills in digital transaction management and financial software development are increasingly valuable. Soft skills like problem-solving, effective communication, and adaptability are also essential complements to technical abilities. These ensure a smooth navigation of the complexities of modern workplaces.

Innovative Learning Programs 

India’s response to these educational needs is visible through a variety of innovative learning initiatives aimed at equipping the future workforce. Programs under the umbrella of the Skill India Mission are pivotal, offering specialised training in areas like robotics and financial services. Educational foundations and government-led online platforms are expanding access to STEM education, emphasising practical, technology-driven learning experiences that are critical for adapting to the future market.

For instance, initiatives like the India STEM Foundation are crucial in fostering an early interest in science and technology through programs that simulate real-world engineering and programming challenges. These programs not only prepare students for future careers but also instil a mindset of continuous learning and innovation.

Current Trends in Employee Training and Development

Companies are increasingly recognising the importance of continual learning and adaptation. There is a shift towards digital training platforms that offer flexible, personalised learning experiences. Microlearning techniques are gaining popularity, allowing employees to acquire new skills in shorter, more manageable intervals. This approach is particularly effective in a fast-paced work environment where time is at a premium.

Furthermore, the integration of AI tools in training processes is enabling more immersive and interactive learning experiences. Companies are leveraging virtual reality and augmented reality to simulate real-life scenarios, providing employees with hands-on experience in a controlled, risk-free environment.

As we look towards a future where many of today’s jobs may not exist, the onus is on both individuals and organisations to foster a culture of proactive learning and adaptability. By anticipating changes in the job market and investing in relevant skills development, India can ensure its workforce remains competitive and ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s economy. 

The Demand Surge for Indian Healthcare Professionals

India’s healthcare sector is experiencing a significant surge in demand for professionals, leading to a hiring boom in the industry. A National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) report highlights that the growing burden of non-communicable diseases and an ageing population are primary factors driving this demand. As hospitals and healthcare facilities expand their workforce, there is an unprecedented need for key professionals such as medical doctors, nurse practitioners, and medical technicians. This trend is not merely about filling positions; it is about transforming healthcare delivery to better manage the increased burden on healthcare systems and improve patient outcomes.

Emerging Roles in High Demand

The need for general practitioners to address the basic healthcare needs of the population cannot be overstated. Additionally, there is a significant demand for specialised nurses who provide primary healthcare services, particularly in rural and underserved regions. The expansion of healthcare facilities has also led to a growing need for skilled medical technicians to operate advanced medical equipment, ensuring efficient and effective patient care.

In addition, the need for healthcare administrators has increased as facilities expand and services grow more complex. Epidemiologists have also become increasingly important, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, due to their expertise in disease patterns and control measures. This comprehensive growth in demand across various roles underscores the sector’s transformation, aiming to enhance healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

Factors Driving This Surge

Several factors are contributing to this surge in demand for healthcare professionals in India, such as:

  • Population Growth: India’s population continues to grow, leading to a greater need for healthcare services. The country is projected to add around 140 million middle-income and 21 million high-income households by 2030. (Source: KPMG)
  • Ageing Population: With an increase in life expectancy, the elderly population requires more medical attention. By 2030, the median age of the population is expected to be 31, making India the largest working-age population in the world.
  • Rising NCDs: Lifestyle changes have led to a higher incidence of diseases like diabetes and hypertension, necessitating specialised care (Source: Apollo Report). 
  • Technological Advancements: The integration of technology in healthcare, such as telemedicine and AI, has created new roles and increased demand for tech-savvy professionals. According to TeamLease Digital, the broad adoption of AI in Indian healthcare is predicted to generate millions of new jobs while replacing nearly 23% of current roles by 2028. The healthcare workforce is expected to grow from 7.5 million to 9 million by 2027, with 1-2% being technology experts. Advancements in telemedicine, virtual assistants, and data analytics are anticipated to create 2.7-3.5 million new technology jobs, increasing demand for professionals like data scientists and AI specialists.
  • Health Insurance Penetration: With more people getting health insurance, there’s an increased demand for healthcare services across the board. As per Forbes, the health insurance market in India was growing at a CAGR of 24% but rose about 34% in the pandemic time period.
  • Government Initiatives: Schemes like the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission and investments in infrastructure have expanded access to healthcare, thus increasing workforce requirements.

Evolving Qualifications and Experience

The COVID-19 pandemic has influenced the qualifications and experience requirements for healthcare professionals in India. Upskilling has become imperative, with existing professionals needing to acquire new competencies in critical care, respiratory therapy, and infection control. The rise of telemedicine has made proficiency in digital health tools and platforms a necessity. Public health education has also gained importance, emphasising the need for qualifications in epidemiology, public health, and health policy. Additionally, healthcare workers are increasingly being trained to provide mental health support, recognising the psychological impact of the pandemic on both patients and healthcare providers.

Promising Growth Projections

The projected growth rates for employment in the healthcare sector are highly promising. It is expected to grow by 12.59% in the fiscal year 2024-25 as per the Union Budget Allocation. The hospital market, valued at USD 98.98 billion in 2023, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.0% from 2024 to 2032, potentially reaching USD 193.59 billion by 2032. The telemedicine market is expected to reach USD 5.4 billion by 2025, growing at an impressive CAGR of 31%. AI applications in healthcare are projected to grow at an annual rate of 45% by 2024. These figures indicate strong long-term career prospects for professionals in the healthcare field.

Adapting Hiring Strategies

Healthcare facilities are adapting hiring strategies to cope with the increased demand for related services. Building a strong employer brand is crucial to attracting top talent. Highlighting commitments to employee development and patient care can make healthcare facilities more attractive to potential employees. Utilising technology in the recruitment process, such as AI and ML, can also help streamline hiring and expand workforce capacity.

Addressing Staffing Challenges

Despite the opportunities, healthcare facilities face several staffing challenges. There’s a persistent shortage of qualified healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and allied healthcare staff, due to the rising demand for services. High turnover rates, fueled by burnout and stress, lead to disruptions in patient care and increased costs associated with recruitment and training. Staffing gaps and workload imbalances result in increased stress, compromised patient care, and employee dissatisfaction. Rural areas, in particular, struggle with limited local resources, making recruitment difficult and putting patient care at risk.

To address these challenges, healthcare facilities are implementing comprehensive upskilling programs and leveraging technology to streamline recruitment and expand workforce capacity. Offering financial incentives, professional development programs, and mentorship can help reduce turnover and attract talent. Collaborating with educational institutions to develop robust recruitment and training programs can ensure a continuous pipeline of skilled healthcare professionals.

The surge in demand for healthcare professionals is driven by a combination of demographic changes, technological advancements, and government initiatives. As the sector continues to evolve, it is essential for healthcare facilities to adapt their hiring strategies and address staffing challenges to ensure a robust and capable workforce. By focusing on building a strong employer brand, leveraging technology, and investing in upskilling programs, India can meet the growing healthcare needs of its population and create a more resilient and sustainable system.

Is EV the new IT in India?

Seven years from now, the Electronic Vehicle (EV) industry is slated to hire ten million people, i.e., ten million as direct recruits into the EV industry and another 50 million in EV-allied jobs, as per IBEF reports. Even in a buoyant job market, this figure is staggering. Coming from auto-industry leaders and the Government of India, the news ushers opportunities and change. EV will electrify the market and catapult recruitment. This is the next great opportunity for India, the fastest and the largest ever.

The blueprint of change
In 2022, when India pipped Japan to become the world’s third largest auto market, auto sales never looked better in the country. Today, with over 21 crore two-wheelers and more than 7 crore four-wheelers, the Indian roads are busy. Just as busy is India’s auto industry, which at present is the fourth largest in the world.

Poised to break into this market and change the entire lay of the land is India’s EV Industry.

As per National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog), by 2030, 80 per cent of two and three-wheelers, 40 per cent of buses, and 30 to 70 per cent of cars in India will be EVs. This includes all government-owned vehicles.

In addition to the existing 2,700 public charging stations and 5,500 charging connectors, to support the expected demand for EVs, India will need as many as 20.5 lakh charging stations by 2030. This monumental task must be completed alongside EV manufacturing and sales.

Driving India
India’s climate commitment, the critical need for clean, green energy which is less dependent on fossil fuel and the goal to achieve net zero carbon emission by 2070, are the driving forces behind this goal. EVs will help in achieving these objectives, because unlike vehicles that run on traditional gasoline, EVs are fuelled by Lithium Ion batteries that are less polluting and more energy and cost efficient.

For a nation that is looking at shifting from being a purely service driven economy to a global hub for manufacturing as well, EV manufacturing and allied services will play a mission critical role.

The EV umbrella
Included under the enormous EV umbrella are India’s original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), EV franchisers, battery manufacturers, manufacturers of EV components and accessories, solar vehicle charging and battery swapping infrastructure providers, a seamless supply chain, battery recycling plants, companies that can set up charging stations across the country etc.

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship believes that this huge task, owned by the EV industry, will generate one crore jobs by 2030. Compare this with the IT sector which is laying off thousands of people every day and a clear picture will emerge as to why EV is looking like the next big boom for India.

The multidisciplinary EV industry will create employment opportunities for entrepreneurs, researchers, product designers, mechanical engineers, chemical engineers, IT professionals, quality testers, infrastructure developers, charging station personnel, e-cab owners and drivers, EV maintenance mechanics, personnel who are proficient in retrofitting of vehicles from petrol/diesel to electric and sales and marketing personnel.

All hands on the deck
For starters, to promote the use of EVs all stakeholders are in action mode. Both the Central Government and State Governments have rolled out multiple initiatives to support its electricity mission, including a blueprint to generate 10 million jobs and supply skilled manpower to the industry. In fact, a specialised EV course curriculum is in the making, to cater to the expected workforce demand. Manufacturing companies are sealing tie-ups with colleges and training centres to run short and long-term courses to create ready-to-hit-the-road-running engineers, technicians and marketers. What is more, entrepreneurs in the EV space are being given special incentives to come up with innovative solutions.

Opening new doors
Studies reveal that with more EVs hitting the road in 2023, the industry will see 40-45% expansion in the job market in the coming months. At present, the industry is a fertile ground for research and development, new engineering departments, new and innovative product designers. Existing EV players have hired more than 2236 core employees in the past six months, many of them women in top management positions.

Incidentally, the EV industry also boasts of a fully women-run factory in Tamil Nadu.

OEMs are expecting to launch 20 -30 new EVs by 2030 and are looking for analysts and product designers. Semiconductor companies need engineers with EV power-terrain knowledge. Their vendors and suppliers are hiring people who are experienced in last-mile delivery…
IoT, ML, AI and EVs.

Green Mobility, which will be the next big game-changer on the horizon, uses technologies such as IoT, ML and AI to complement it. These technologies will allow EV vehicles to communicate information regarding battery performance; it will allow EV drivers to access maps and other information, thereby saving time, ML algorithms combined with advanced data analysis tools will provide safer driving experiences by identifying obstacles ahead of time. New product designs will help people with disabilities to be mobile and have access to work opportunities.

The stars are aligned – the government, environment, market demand, technology influence, EV options for all strata of society, the export market, employment opportunities and the recent discovery of Lithium in Kashmir. These factors will lead to exponential growth, both from a pull and push front, and redefine India like nothing before.

The writer is founder and MD, Ad Astra.

India: The next global RPO destination

Set to be the world’s leading RPO destination, India holds tremendous transformation potential for global businesses. Join our co-founder Nirupama V.G., as she explains how India’s vast pool of qualified and skilled talent pool and players experienced with international business practices will transform the RPO space. Read the full Thought Leadership article here.