The third instalment in my mini guide to TA Transformation is one that is probably my favourite (I do apologise in advance to anyone who is not a Game of Thrones fan for the title).
We have covered what we need to get the transformation ball rolling, how to create experiences rather than processes. Now we will look at for me something that should be not only the backbone of any transformation, but the heart of your TA function; Data.
Data should drive the decisions we make. It should determine how we do things, where we need to improve and illustrate what impacts we have made. Whether it is the weekly kick-off meeting for a delivery team or as part of an Executive board pack, data should be used to engage and influence the organisation illustrating our ability to be a true profit centre.
I think everyone agrees that TA probably doesn’t use data as much as they should but for me it should be central to everything we do. It does not have to be difficult either. Look at what data-sets you collect; is it from an ATS/CRM? What does it tell you? Does it accurately reflect what you do as a function? Clearly here you might need a tough conversation with a supplier re configuration of your workflows or reporting capability but this is all essential stuff. If we look at our colleagues in Sales and Finance, this would probably be minimum par for the course…
When it comes to analysing and using your data, keep it simple. Look at your overall strategy…what are your overall goals and objectives? How do they cascade into activities? I always like to use the STRATEGIC TACTICAL OPERATIONAL model and below are some good examples:
Strategic
Headcount growth/turnover
Cost of empty seat/vacancy
Employer Brand equity
Diversity & Inclusion
Tactical
Talent availability/landscape/competition
Quality of hire
NPS Referrals/Advocacy
Operational
Time to hire
Source Conversion
Actual hires v Forecast
Now there are many more data-sets and metrics out there. Data and analytics is a huge area of TA that is growing at pace due to its strategic value and the development of tech and AI/automation. Focus on what you want to achieve and take it from there. Don’t walk before you can run however don’t underestimate the power of data. It is one of the biggest tools in your armoury when it comes to objectively proving your commercial worth as a TA function.
BG
If you haven’t already, you can read Part 1 and Part 2 here.
