Automation is often linked with employee layoffs and company downsizing. However, this doesn’t always have to be the case — you can automate your processes without causing financial stress and compromising the mental health of your employees. There’s also the fact that mass layoffs that follow automation can lead to reputation damage.
But how can your company embrace automation without downsizing?
nexAir used its KnowHow to recommend a seamless way to transition to automation. Hence, your company can Forge Forward without letting go of valuable employees.

Preparing Your Employees for the Future of Your Company

There are three steps for retaining employees amid automation:

1. Start by freezing the hiring process of employees until the changes settle.

The simplest way to prevent downsizing is to freeze the hiring process as you transition to automation. Wait until you can see how much manpower you need with your new automated processes. At the same time, start figuring out other support roles and job descriptions for current employees.
Once automation is better integrated, you can slowly start hiring more employees to meet your demands.

2. Futureproof your business by revisiting roles and conducting job modifications.

It’s normal for people to feel a loss of purpose if their role gets replaced by automation. Instead of laying them off, revisit their roles, research how their skillset can support your business, and propose job modifications.
Revisiting job descriptions also gives your company an opportunity to update the skills of your employees so you can future-proof your organization and propel your business forward.

3. Fuel growth with employees whose jobs have transitioned to automation.

Workplace automation is inevitable, especially as technological advancements make their way across industries. Some examples are software tools used for email marketing and accounting and payroll software for HR teams.
However, automation and artificial intelligence still can’t equate the insights and experience of tenured employees who may have suggestions about how to take your business to greater heights once processes have been streamlined. You can still leverage their experience and skills to take your company to the next level of growth.

Knowing the Importance of Retention Amid Automation

COVID-19 made us realize the vulnerability of human workers to health threats and viruses that affect productivity. To minimize operational disruptions, many industries looked to automation and robotics. Despite this trend and the fact that there’s no stopping technological advancements and innovation, your company may not need to lay off employees anytime soon. Why?

• Current employees are the greatest contributors to your success. If not for their skills and commitment to the job, your business wouldn’t be where it is today.
• Automation is inevitable — as are job description modifications. All industries will eventually have to learn to balance their manpower needs with automation.
• Business growth doesn’t start and end with automation. As your business grows, you will naturally need more employees to meet certain demands.

Wondering how your business can integrate automation into your existing processes? Get in touch with us today.