Ai in HR: Hype or necessity?

Artificial intelligence is everywhere, from smart job descriptions to automated screenings and chatbot interviews. But what does going “all in on AI” really mean for HR teams around the world? According to Dieter Veldsman, Chief HR Scientist at the Academy to Innovate HR, it is time to move beyond the hype and make AI a concrete and sustainable part of everyday HR practice.

AI is not changing whether we recruit, but how we do it.

The biggest shift? It is not about that we attract people, but how. Where recruitment once revolved around CVs and interviews, the focus is now shifting toward personalised talent journeys. Just like marketing has long worked with funnels, segmentation, and tailored campaigns, we are now seeing the same approach in recruitment and employer branding. And this is more than just a passing trend.

Dieter Veldsman
Dieter Veldsman

“Candidates expect an experience that feels personalised,” says Dieter. “With the right technology, we can now deliver that at scale.”

HR needs to dare to experiment more

AI enables HR teams to work faster, more targeted, and data-driven. But it also requires courage — to embrace new tools, to automate where possible, and to rethink what should remain human work.

Veldsman stresses that this does not mean technology replaces the human side. On the contrary: “By automating standard tasks, you create space for real conversations. For connection. For meaningful interaction.”

Using technology effectively does require different skills within HR teams. Think data literacy, the ability to critically assess algorithms, and making strategic choices about tools that truly support your goals.

AI is not everything, but it is essential

So, is AI the solution to every HR challenge? Of course not. But it has become an essential part of building modern and future-proof HR processes. The real power lies in the combination: technology as an accelerator, HR as the driving force.

Dieter Veldsman
Dieter Veldsman

“Do not use technology as an excuse to distance yourself from people, but as a way to get closer to them.”

Want to learn more about the role of AI in HR strategy?

Meet Dieter Veldsman and other international experts at Global Talent Strategy & Intelligence Conference 2025 in Amsterdam. Get inspired by real-world cases, innovative technology, and future-focused insights.

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