Jason Walker: Why Empathy is Crucial in HR
In this episode of #thePOZcast, Adam Posner speaks with Jason Walker, co-founder of ThriveHR Consulting, about the evolving HR landscape, the impact of AI on talent acquisition, and the importance of empathy in the workplace. They discuss the challenges job seekers face in a competitive market, the concept of 'job hugging,' and the benefits of fractional HR services. Jason emphasizes the need for organizations to adapt to AI while maintaining a human touch and offers actionable advice for job seekers to personalize their approach in a challenging job market.
Jason Walker is the cofounder of Thrive HR Consulting and one of today’s leading thinkers in modern HR. Jason is an industry veteran, global speaker, and trusted talent advisor who’s helped companies transform their people practices through massive shifts—AI, workforce transformation, M&A, you name it. He and his partner launched Thrive HR to give organizations fractional, high-impact HR support across exec coaching, DEIB, employee relations, compliance, global HR, and more. Jason’s been recognized as a Top 100 Global HR Influencer, a LinkedIn Top Voice in Talent Acquisition, and a go-to expert for outlets like Fortune, CNBC, Fast Company, and The Washington Post. He also serves on multiple advisory boards, leads Thrive’s new AI services, and co-hosts the Thrive Live podcast.
Jason is here to break down what’s really happening in HR and where the future of talent is going. Let's get into it.
Learn more: https://thrivehrconsulting.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-walker-7a7a/
Jason Walker jason@thrivehrconsulting.com
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Takeaways
- Jason Walker's journey into HR was influenced by his dyslexia and strong people skills.
- Empathy is crucial in HR, especially for those who have faced challenges.
- AI has disrupted traditional job searching methods, making networking more important.
- Job seekers need to adopt a warrior mentality to compete in the current market.
- Companies are hesitant to hire due to uncertainty about future needs.
- AI tools can help streamline hiring processes but may lead to a competitive environment.
- Job hugging reflects employees' fears of job security and market instability.
- Hybrid work models present challenges for employee engagement and development.
- HR leaders must focus on maintaining culture and employee appreciation during tough times.
- Fractional HR services provide cost-effective solutions for companies needing specialized support.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Jason Walker and ThriveHR Consulting
02:32 Jason's Journey into HR and Empathy Development
05:01 The Changing Talent Landscape and AI's Impact
11:14 The AI War: Job Seekers vs Employers
12:18 Positive Uses of AI in Hiring Processes
18:45 Understanding Job Hugging in Today's Market
20:47 The Hybrid Work Model: Pros and Cons
23:42 Culture, Burnout, and Compliance Risks in HR
27:02 Practical AI Adoption in HR
32:37 Fractional HR: A Growing Demand
37:47 Actionable Advice for Job Seekers
40:42 Optimism in the HR Landscape
