The 8th Annual Talent Summit, hosted by CHRM College in collaboration with the College of Human Resource Alumni Association (CHRMAA), will bring together HR professionals, thought leaders, and emerging talent at the stunning Prideinn Paradise Resort in Mombasa from the 19th to the 22nd of November. This year’s theme, “Mastering the Future of Talent: Navigating Change in a Dynamic World,” sets the tone for an event dedicated to reshaping the future of talent management in an era of rapidly evolving workplace landscapes.

As the summit kicks off on Tuesday, the 19th, the focus is clear: equipping HR professionals with actionable strategies and insights to thrive in an era of unprecedented change. From talent acquisition and retention to creating resilient workplaces, every aspect of this summit is designed to address the most pressing challenges faced by the HR industry today.

One of the unique aspects of this summit is its emphasis on networking and mentorship. Attendees are encouraged to connect not only with peers but also with the next generation of HR professionals, Generation Z, whose innovative perspectives promise to redefine traditional HR practices. The summit serves as a platform for building bridges, fostering collaborations and creating a community that supports personal and professional growth.

Over four days, the summit will offer a rich lineup of sessions, workshops and panel discussions led by distinguished experts. The program will cover a spectrum of topics, such as:

• Leveraging technology to streamline talent acquisition and enhance retention strategies
• Building adaptable and inclusive workplaces that prioritize employee well-being
• Strategies for navigating an increasingly competitive talent landscape

The summit isn’t just about knowledge-sharing; it’s also a celebration of the vibrant HR community. The cocktail dinner on Friday night, themed around African, will be a highlight, a moment to showcase creativity, enjoy camaraderie and embody the lighter side of HR.

As the HR community gathers at this pivotal moment, the message is clear: the future of talent is not just about keeping pace with change but leading it. Let this year’s summit be a beacon for HR professionals committed to transforming challenges into opportunities and shaping workplaces that inspire and thrive.

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, attracting top talent has become increasingly challenging. As industries grow and innovate, the competition for highly skilled professionals intensifies. Companies must adopt strategic approaches to not only find but also retain the best candidates in a crowded market.

One key strategy is offering competitive compensation and benefits. While salary remains a crucial factor, it’s not the only consideration. A comprehensive benefits package that includes health care, retirement plans, flexible working arrangements and wellness programs can significantly enhance a company’s appeal. In a competitive market, top candidates seek more than just a paycheck, they look for benefits that improve their overall quality of life.

Building a strong employer brand is another essential strategy. A robust employer brand is vital for attracting top talent. Candidates are drawn to organizations with a positive reputation, values aligned with their own and a clear vision. Showcasing the company’s culture, success stories, and growth opportunities through social media, employee testimonials and a strong online presence can create a compelling image.

Talented professionals are also attracted to organizations that invest in their growth and development. Providing training programs, mentorship and opportunities for advancement can set a company apart. Top candidates want to know they have room to grow within the company and that their careers will progress. Clear communication about potential career paths and professional development opportunities is crucial.

Additionally, flexible working conditions have become increasingly important. The global shift toward remote and flexible work has reshaped the job market. Top talent now seeks organizations that offer flexibility, whether through remote work options, flexible hours or hybrid models. Companies that provide these options are better positioned to attract highly skilled professionals who prioritize work-life balance.

Emphasizing diversity and inclusion is also critical. Top talent is increasingly looking for employers that prioritize these values. A diverse workforce enhances creativity and innovation and attracts a broader pool of candidates. Companies should highlight their commitment to creating an inclusive work environment where all employees feel valued and respected.

Creating a positive candidate experience is essential. The recruitment process is often a candidate’s first interaction with the company and it should be a positive one. Timely communication, clear expectations and constructive feedback can leave a lasting impression. A negative experience can drive away top candidates, even if they are initially interested in the position.

Encouraging employee referrals can be highly effective. Current employees are often among the best sources for attracting top talent. By offering incentives and creating a referral program, companies can leverage their employees’ networks to find skilled professionals.

On September 6th, 2024, CHRM College held its 27th Graduation Ceremony at St. Andrews Church Hall in Nairobi, celebrating the accomplishments of the Class of 2024. The event marked the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and growth for the graduates, many of whom are now ready to make their mark in the world of work.

In her speech, Eva Gaicugi, the Student Council Vice President, highlighted the profound impact of education on their journey. She reminded her fellow graduates of the broader life lessons learned during their time at CHRM College:

As we look towards the future, we must remember that our education has equipped us with more than just knowledge. It has given us the ability to think critically, to solve problems, and to approach the world with empathy and resilience. It has taught us that success is not merely about achieving goals but about the journey and the people we impact along the way,” said Gaicugi, inspiring her peers to move forward with both confidence and compassion.

The event was further enriched by a powerful speech from CHRM College Principal, CHRP Margaret Kinyanjui, who emphasized the institution’s commitment to more than just professional education. She pointed out that graduates must consider both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The theme of the graduation, “Embracing Change, Fostering Sustainable Futures,” is particularly relevant in today’s rapidly evolving world.

“At CHRM, we believe that professional education is not just about imparting knowledge and skills but about instilling a sense of purpose. The power of purpose is what drives change, and it is our goal to inspire our students to use their education to make a positive impact on the world of work,” Principal Kinyanjui said, encouraging graduates to step into their careers with a mission to create meaningful change.

The ceremony was also graced by Tom Kamaliki, a member of the Education and Training Board Committee, who acknowledged the unique challenges this graduating class faces in today’s job market.

“This year has brought its challenges, both globally and locally. The job market is shifting, and the expectations placed upon graduates are higher than ever. However, I have no doubt that the education you received at CHRM College has prepared you to meet these challenges head-on,” Kamaliki reassured the graduates.

The ceremony concluded with the graduates receiving their diplomas, a tangible symbol of their achievements. Family members, friends, and faculty celebrated their success with pride and joy. The event was not just a reflection of the graduates’ academic accomplishments, but also a testament to their perseverance, adaptability, and readiness to embrace the future. With their education from CHRM College, these graduates are well-equipped to tackle the evolving demands of the workforce and contribute meaningfully to society.

Businesses across the world are operating in an uncertain environment in which a myriad of disruptive forces, mostly driven by technological advancement, have brought changes that have disrupted the nature of work and skills requirement. These changes have presented opportunities and challenges in skills requirements to both the employer and the employee. Organizational skills requirement has taken a different shape. Employee skills as well require to be developed in order to build capacity to support and manage the digital transformation. Without talented and skilled workforce, a business has little hope of survival in the emerging turbulent environment. It is therefore important for HR Professionals to be aware of the trends shaping the future of their businesses so as to harness the human skills to sync with emerging trends.  

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is here with us.  The AI and its related technologies will have a seismic impact on all aspects of businesses and employees need to upgrade their skills to stay relevant. Organizations need to strategically invest in training and development as they position themselves to respond to the changing business landscape. It is imperative for HR professionals to understand how AI will impact business operations, so that they can start to build the skills and talents necessary to embrace the changes. Imperative is to build a vibrant and resilient talent ecosystem that can meet the organization’s future skills needs. A study carried out by Mckinsey & Company found that technological skills will increase 55 percent by 2030. Aligning employee skills with the emerging technologies can help the organization to have a ready supply of AI enabled skilled talents. Another survey carried out on Kenyan Companies by the International Labour Organization, found digital skills to be “the most important single skill set cited by enterprises as being important for their future success” (ILO 2022).  This means that organizations need to change their skills development tools in order to meet the changing HR skills needs. 

The use of data for decision making has continued to gain prominence. Employers have access to considerable amounts of data over an employee’s lifecycle, but the majority lack the requisite skills to interpret and use this data.  The business of the future will be data driven and having digital and analytical skills needed to interpret data to shape business decisions is critical. Data is going to be the “new oil” to business competitiveness. Businesses that are not able to employ the various emerging technologies to interpret data intelligently would be the laggards in an extremely competitive marketplace (Pareek et al.). It is important that businesses address their employees’ analytics capabilities to link analytics to business outcomes. Businesses can use softwares integrated with AI capabilities to upskill their workforce and develop critical analytical skills in their staff. 

Developments in technology have expanded the possibility for traditional workplaces and new forms of work have evolved. HR professionals can develop the right digital skills in their employees and create the right conditions for remote work.  HR can also optimize the concept of remote work to attract and retain critical talents.  Millennials and GenZs who are highly tech savvy are difficult to attract and offering them the ability to work from “anywhere” can be very appealing to these demographics. 

HR Professionals will not be looking into harnessing their employees’ technical skills only. Developing a new set of soft skills is equally critical. HR needs to find ways to balance technology adoption with maintaining the human touch as they endeavor to integrate people with technology. Organizations require technical skills complemented by soft skills. The International Labour Organization study indicated that soft skills such as creativity and communication were amongst the most important to the future success of business. Also cited as important is teamwork, multitasking abilities/ flexibility and collaborative skills. This means that greater need for social and emotional skills need to be developed going forward.  

The one-million-dollar question is “how is your organization positioning its human resources for tomorrow?”.

By CHRP Janet Mitu

The writer is a human resource consultant, trainer, and a lecturer at the College of Human Resource Management.

mitujanet@gmail.com

Written by: Dennis Mburu, Cyber Security Lecturer at CHRM College

As remote work becomes more prevalent in Kenya, cybersecurity is a growing concern. The shift from traditional office environments to home-based workspaces offers flexibility but also opens doors to significant cyber threats. With the increasing reliance on digital platforms for communication and business operations, understanding the unique risks facing Kenyan remote workers is critical. This blog focuses on the importance of cybersecurity in Kenya’s evolving work landscape and provides practical tips to keep your data safe.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote work globally and Kenya was no exception. Many businesses transitioned to online operations, with employees working from home. However, this shift also exposed vulnerabilities in digital security. In a country where internet penetration is steadily growing and mobile money transactions are a way of life, cybercriminals are finding new ways to exploit these systems. Kenya’s Cybersecurity Report indicates a sharp rise in cyber threats, with phishing attacks, ransomware and data breaches becoming more frequent. The need for robust cybersecurity measures has never been more pressing.

As more Kenyans access the internet for work, education and financial services, the threat landscape has expanded. Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting individuals and businesses through sophisticated attacks. Common tactics include phishing emails that trick users into divulging personal information, malware that infects devices, and ransomware that locks up data until a ransom is paid. For remote workers in Kenya, the risks are heightened by the use of unsecured home networks and personal devices.

One of the most effective ways to combat cyber threats is through awareness. Many cyberattacks succeed because individuals are unaware of the risks or do not recognize the signs of a potential threat. Employers in Kenya must invest in cybersecurity training  for their remote teams, educating them on best practices such as recognizing phishing attempts, using strong passwords, and securing home Wi-Fi networks. Simple steps like regularly updating software and using multi-factor authentication can make a significant difference.

3. Practical Tips for Enhancing Cybersecurity

• Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Avoid using the same password across multiple accounts. Use a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters to create a strong password, and consider using a password manager.
• Secure Your Home Network: Change the default settings on your router, use WPA3 encryption, and ensure your network is password-protected. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for work-related tasks.
• Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification before accessing accounts.

Businesses in Kenya must take an active role in securing their operations. This includes implementing strict cybersecurity policies, investing in secure communication tools and ensuring that all employees have access to the resources they need to work safely. Regular audits and updates to security protocols are essential to staying ahead of potential threats.

In Kenya’s rapidly digitizing economy, cybersecurity is not just a technical concern but a critical necessity for anyone working remotely. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, both individuals and businesses can protect themselves from the ever-growing threat of cyberattacks. The responsibility to safeguard our digital spaces falls on all of us, and now is the time to take action.

Take control of your digital security today. Start by assessing your current cybersecurity practices and making the necessary improvements. Whether you’re an individual working from home or a business owner managing remote teams, investing in cybersecurity is investing in your future. Share this blog with your colleagues and friends to spread awareness and join the movement toward a safer online environment in Kenya.

Author Bio:

Dennis Mburu is a cybersecurity consultant and legal professional based in Kenya, with a focus on data protection and privacy law. Passionate about helping individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of cybersecurity, Dennis provides expert insights on keeping digital environments secure in today’s ever-changing work landscape.

In today’s world, inclusivity is more than a buzzword, it is a fundamental component for fostering innovation and growth. Ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute to and influence every part and level of an organization is crucial for achieving true inclusivity. When inclusivity is paired with a sense of belonging, where everyone feels safe and can bring their full, unique selves to an environment, the results are transformative.

Institutions that embrace inclusivity benefit from a diverse range of perspectives, leading to better decision-making and more creative solutions. Inclusivity also creates an environment where everyone feels valued and respected for who they are and what they bring to the table. Inclusive education is the most effective way to give all children a fair chance to go to school, learn and develop the skills they need to thrive.

Having a disability can be one of the most marginalizing factors in a person’s life. In education, finding ways to meet the learning needs of students with disabilities can be challenging, especially in institutions, districts, regions and countries with limited resources. Inclusive education, which fully engages all students, including those with disabilities or other learning challenges, in quality education, has proven particularly effective in helping all students learn, even while challenges to implementing inclusive education systems remain.

CHRM College stands as a beacon of inclusivity and belonging in the educational sector. By ensuring that everyone, including those differently abled, have an equal opportunity to study, contribute and achieve their career goals, CHRM College has created an environment where diversity thrives. The college’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its policies, programs and practices that promote inclusion at all levels.

‘The college has provided all the necessary channels to make it easy for me to study, even though I am visually impaired. I am able to continue my education comfortably thanks to the availability of online learning. I chose CHRM College because of its ability to offer the best services and its exceptional lecturers who are already practicing professionals,’ said Kelvin Kioko, a Higher Diploma student at CHRM College.

Embracing inclusivity is not just a moral imperative but a strategic advantage in today’s world. Institutions that prioritize inclusivity, like CHRM College, exemplify how promoting an environment where every individual, regardless of ability, can thrive leads to remarkable innovation and growth. By creating spaces where diverse perspectives are valued and every student has the opportunity to contribute and succeed, CHRM College is setting a standard for educational excellence and equity. The college’s commitment to inclusivity, as highlighted by students like Kelvin Kioko, demonstrates the transformative power of ensuring that all voices are heard and all talents are recognized. As we move forward, let us continue to champion inclusivity in all areas, knowing that such dedication enriches our communities and drives our collective success.