Interactive digital environments have been around for a while. Advancements in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have made a transformative impact on domains like gaming, training, and e-commerce, to name only a few. Their growing role in the HR function deserves special mention. VR and AR solutions make work more exciting by stretching the limits of the real world.
VR creates a virtual 3D environment and provides an immersive experience. AR, on the other hand, overlays additional interactive elements in a real-world environment. Although both of these technologies are different, they can complement each other and help augment HR processes across industries. When put together, they have immense potential to create a seismic shift in the HR function. This article enumerates the most common benefits of VR and AR for human resource professionals.
Adds Speed and Efficiency to Candidate Hiring
Hiring managers face the challenge of attracting, engaging, and recruiting the best candidates for the right job. Although an application tracking system (ATS) lends a helping hand, they still struggle to meet their hiring goals. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) can make a significant impact by augmenting the hiring process and elevating the candidates’ experience.
Most importantly, they enable hiring teams to make real-time decisions since the candidates have interacted with an environment that’s close to reality.
Virtual reality enables HR teams to test candidates by asking them to solve challenges by showing them scenarios that are almost real. This allows candidates to exhibit their on-the-job competencies before joining. VR-based job fairs and AR-based job ads/job descriptions help candidates explore a company’s culture and workplace without being physically present there.
Takes the Onboarding Process to a Different Level
Excessive paperwork, information overload, and process inconsistencies have been some of the most common obstacles to hassle-free employee onboarding. Though full-suite HRMS platforms have a built-in module to handle employee onboarding, VR and AR can make the process more engaging and exciting.
HR teams are now using VR to create virtual workplace tours during remote onboarding. Since traditional onboarding could be time-consuming, the employees can be given a simulated demo of some workflows with a VR headset. AR can even transform a printed document into a whole new interactive experience. AR-based handbooks, games, and stories can make onboarding tasks more enjoyable and memorable.
Makes Employee Training Innovative and Cost-Effective
Trainers have to keep the learners engaged during the program. Moreover, they need to ensure that the learners retain the knowledge when they get back to work. VR and AR help host virtual meetings and novel training sessions. Stated simply, they create immersive and practical learning experiences for the employees of an organization. Moreover, both are great tools to ensure workforce agility, continuous learning, and sustained productivity.
Using VR, new employees can acquire new skills faster thanks to its innovative possibilities. Trainers can create simulations that replicate real-world scenarios like machine operation and conflict management. AR takes training to the next level by superimposing text, visuals, and videos on actual environments, so the learners can interact with them. The best part: it makes the learning management system identify areas for improvement and the training needs of individuals.
Infuses Innovation in Employee Engagement Programs
Ineffective communication, inconsistent feedback, and inaccurate measurement are just a few of the reasons why employee engagement programs falter. Traditional methods of engagement, like emails, employee groups, and virtual meetings, are effective. But VR and AR make the process of team building, collaboration, and engagement even more impactful.
VR can make brainstorming sessions, hackathons, and presentations more lively. Some companies ship VR headsets to their employees, so they can participate in these sessions even from remote locations. AR, on the other hand, adds virtual objects to the real environment and makes it more interactive. HR can also use AR-based virtual bulletin boards to help employees share ideas and feedback.
