Thursday, January 22, 2026

HR Partner Competency: "Upward Management" A Communication Perspective

22 Jan 2026, Singapore: In an office environment, when we mentioned "Upward Management" - people tend to associate it with negative situation. In the context of HR Partnering, or Leadership Development, it is a competency that need to be mastered.

+++ 

Upward Management: A Communication Perspective

Upward management is the skill of managing relationships with senior leaders by communicating in ways that foster trust, clarity, and alignment. From a communication perspective, it means:

  • Build Trust through Consistency – Deliver accurate updates, keep commitments, and communicate in a reliable manner so leaders see you as credible and dependable.
  • Avoid Surprises – Share emerging risks, challenges, or changes early. Leaders value transparency and dislike being blindsided, especially when it impacts stakeholders or customers.
  • Communicate with Clarity and Brevity – Present updates and recommendations in a structured, concise format that allows leaders to make informed decisions quickly.
  • Proactive and Forward-Looking – Anticipate the information leaders will need, highlight options, and propose solutions rather than just reporting problems.
  • Mutual Feedback Loop – Listen actively, clarify expectations, and confirm understanding to ensure alignment with organizational goals.

Effective upward management communication positions you not just as a “reporter,” but as a trusted partner who enables leadership success.

+++

Let me know your thoughts in the comment section! 


+++The End+++

HR Partner Competency: Stakeholders Management

22 Jan 2026, Singapore: One of the HR Partner competencies is to develop stakeholders management. 

+++

Stakeholder Management and Engagement Techniques

Effective stakeholder management is crucial for the success of any project or organization. It involves identifying, analyzing, and responding to the needs and expectations of various stakeholders who can impact or be impacted by the project or organization.

What is Stakeholder Management?

Stakeholder management is the process of identifying, analyzing, and responding to the needs and expectations of stakeholders. It involves understanding their interests, needs, and expectations and developing strategies to engage with them effectively.

Importance of Stakeholder Management

  • Builds trust and credibility: Effective stakeholder management helps build trust and credibility with stakeholders, which is critical for the success of any project or organization.
  • Identifies and mitigates risks: Stakeholder management helps identify potential risks and issues that can impact the project or organization and develop strategies to mitigate them.
  • Improves communication: Stakeholder management ensures that stakeholders are informed and engaged throughout the project or organization's lifecycle.
  • Enhances collaboration: Effective stakeholder management fosters collaboration and partnership between stakeholders, which can lead to better outcomes and increased support.

Stakeholder Engagement Techniques
  • Identify and analyze stakeholders: Identify stakeholders who can impact or be impacted by the project or organization and analyze their interests, needs, and expectations.
  • Develop a stakeholder engagement plan: Develop a plan that outlines the strategies and tactics for engaging with stakeholders.
  • Communicate effectively: Communicate with stakeholders in a clear, timely, and transparent manner.
  • Build relationships: Build relationships with stakeholders based on trust, respect, and mutual understanding.
  • Involve stakeholders in decision-making: Involve stakeholders in decision-making processes to ensure that their needs and expectations are considered.
  • Provide feedback: Provide feedback to stakeholders on the progress and outcomes of the project or organization.
  • Use multiple communication channels: Use multiple communication channels, such as meetings, emails, and social media, to engage with stakeholders.
  • Be responsive: Be responsive to stakeholder inquiries and concerns in a timely and effective manner.

Best Practices for Stakeholder Engagement
  • Be proactive: Be proactive in identifying and engaging with stakeholders.
  • Be transparent: Be transparent in all interactions with stakeholders.
  • Be responsive: Be responsive to stakeholder inquiries and concerns.
  • Build trust: Build trust with stakeholders by being reliable, competent, and fair.
  • Foster collaboration: Foster collaboration and partnership between stakeholders.

By following these stakeholder management and engagement techniques, HR Partners can build strong relationships with their stakeholders, identify and mitigate risks, and achieve their goals.

+++The End+++

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

My Mirco-Learning 2 on AI Platform that can Support an Organization HR Processes


21 Jan 2026, Singapore: Listed below are summaries of some 
AI platforms that can support HR professionals in the following functions:


Recruitment and Talent Acquisition

  • LinkedIn Talent Insights: Provides real-time insights on talent availability and workforce trends.
  • Pymetrics: Uses neuroscience-based games to assess cognitive and emotional traits.
  • SeekOut: Offers advanced AI filters for diversity and real-time skills analysis.
  • HireVue: AI-powered video interviewing and skills validation.
  • Eightfold AI: Talent intelligence platform for hiring, growth, and retention.
  • Workable: ATS with AI for sourcing, job ads, and scheduling.

HR Operations and Automation

  • Leena AI: A virtual HR assistant that automates tasks and queries.
  • BambooHR: AI-driven HR software for employee records, payroll, and performance management.
  • Kissflow HR Cloud: AI-driven platform automating key HR workflows
  • Gusto: Combines payroll, HR, and benefits automation powered by AI

Performance Management

  • Effy AI: Complete a 360-degree review in just 60 seconds.
  • ClearCompany: AI-powered alignment of individual and team goals.
  • Lattice: AI-driven platform for continuous performance management and goal tracking.

Employee Engagement and Communication

  • Workday: Holistic AI integration across all HR functions.
  • Slack: AI-powered personalized search and conversation recaps.
  • Trello: AI-powered task automation with visual workflow boards.

Learning and Development

  • Tekstac: Dual-layered assessments with auto and video proctoring.
  • Degreed: AI-powered learning platform.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

  • Diversio: Real-time DEI metric tracking with AI recommendations.
  • Blendoor: Anonymized hiring filters and equity-focused analytics.

Compliance and Risk Management

  • HR Acuity: AI-driven case management for investigations and compliance.
  • Compliance AI: An artificial intelligence designed to help organizations manage regulatory compliance risks. It uses machine learning models to monitor regulatory updates, analyze their impact, and map them to internal policies, procedures, and controls. This enables companies to stay ahead of changing regulations and reduce compliance costs
  • BrightMine: A comprehensive HR compliance and talent strategy platform that integrates reliable people data, advanced AI technology, expert advice, and tools to assist HR teams in navigating complex regulatory environments.

References

+++The End+++

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

My Micro-learning 1 on Comparing the Most Common AI Platform

20 January 2026, Singapore: As part of my 2026 micro-learning, I aim to understand the features and how to utilize them effectively. Listed below are the four (4) AI platforms: 

ChatGPT

  • Advanced Language Generation: ChatGPT can comprehend and respond to complex questions, generate human-like text, and engage in meaningful conversations.
  • Creative Writing: ChatGPT can assist with writing tasks such as articles, stories, and dialogues.
  • Conversational Interface: ChatGPT's conversational interface makes it easy to interact with and get responses.
  • Integration with Other Tools: ChatGPT can integrate with various platforms and tools, such as messaging apps and customer service software.
  • Customization: ChatGPT allows for customization of its responses and tone to fit specific use cases.

Gemini

  • Multimodal Capabilities: Gemini can process and generate text, images, audio, and video, making it a versatile tool for various applications.
  • Google Integration: Gemini's integration with Google services such as Gmail, Google Docs, and Google Drive makes it an excellent tool for productivity and research.
  • Native Code Assistance: Gemini's native code assistance feature helps with coding tasks and provides suggestions for improvement.
  • Robust Math Capabilities: Gemini's math capabilities make it an excellent tool for complex calculations and data analysis.
  • Seamless Integration: Gemini's seamless integration with Google services makes it easy to use and access various tools and features.

Perplexity AI

  • Real-Time Web Indexing: Perplexity AI's real-time web indexing feature provides up-to-date information and answers to questions.
  • Direct Citations: Perplexity AI's direct citations feature provides transparency and trustworthiness by citing sources for its answers.
  • Research-Oriented: Perplexity AI is designed for research-oriented tasks and provides accurate and reliable information.
  • Fact-Checking: Perplexity AI's fact-checking feature helps to verify the accuracy of information and prevent the spread of misinformation.
  • Transparent: Perplexity AI's transparent feature provides insight into its decision-making process and sources.

Meta AI

  • Conversational Abilities: Meta AI's conversational abilities make it an excellent tool for building chatbots and virtual assistants.
  • Integration with Other Tools: Meta AI can integrate with various platforms and tools, such as messaging apps and customer service software.
  • Customization: Meta AI allows for customization of its responses and tone to fit specific use cases.
  • Potential Applications: Meta AI has potential applications in various industries, including customer service, healthcare, and education.

Each platform has its unique features and strengths, and the choice of which one to use will depend on the specific use case and requirements.


+++The End+++

Sunday, January 18, 2026

Asking Meta AI, What the HR Trend will be for 2026!

18 Jan 2026, Singapore: This post is a report from my LinkedIn on 01 Jan 2026 ... While on holiday, I asked Meta AI what the HR trends will be for 2026 - below was the reply from Meta AI:




***Start***

For 2026, HR trends will focus on technological advancements, employee experience, and strategic workforce planning. Key trends include:
- AI-Powered HR: Artificial intelligence will automate routine tasks, enhance decision-making, and improve employee experiences. HR teams will need to develop AI literacy and data analysis skills to leverage these tools effectively.

- Skills-Based Hiring: Organizations will prioritize skills over traditional qualifications, with a focus on continuous learning and development. This shift will enable companies to adapt to changing workforce needs and technological advancements.

- Flexible Work Arrangements: Hybrid and remote work models will continue to dominate, with employees expecting flexibility and autonomy in their work schedules. Companies that offer flexible work options will attract and retain top talent.

- Employee Well-being: Organizations will prioritize employee well-being, mental health, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives to create a positive work environment.

- Data-Driven Decision-Making: HR teams will rely on data analytics to inform strategic decisions, predict workforce trends, and measure the effectiveness of HR initiatives.

- Strategic Workforce Planning: HR leaders will work closely with IT and other departments to develop a future-ready workforce, focusing on skills development, talent acquisition, and succession planning.

To prepare for these trends, HR professionals should:
- Develop AI and data analysis skills
- Focus on skills-based hiring and continuous learning
- Implement flexible work arrangements and prioritize employee well-being
- Leverage data analytics for informed decision-making
- Collaborate with other departments to develop a strategic workforce plan

Some potential job roles that may emerge in 2026 include:
- AI Workflow Designers
- AI Ethics and Compliance Officers
- Conversational AI Designers
- Digital Employee Experience Managers
- Skills Development and Training Specialists

As AI continues to transform the workforce, HR professionals will play a critical role in shaping the future of work and ensuring that organizations are equipped to adapt to changing trends and technologies.

***End***

I let you be the judge, if the above are similar to the conferences you attended.
I was informed by one of my readers that the report was similar to one of the 



Wednesday, January 7, 2026

How Organization Operationalized Key Initiatives in Their "People Strategy" Agenda

05 Jan 2026, Singapore: If you "Google" (i) Market Leading Talent, (ii) High Performance Team, (iii) Future Ready Organization, you will notice that organizations are incorporating the above into their People Strategy. Listed below are examples to illustrate my points.




Below is my secondary research from the internet, as well as the information available on AI platforms (e.g., Metal AI and ChatGPT). 

Market Lead Talent:

"Market Lead Talent" refers to professionals who possess exceptional skills, expertise, and performance in their field, setting them apart from others in the market. These individuals are highly sought after and crucial for driving business success. To attract and retain Market Lead Talent, organizations must offer competitive compensation packages, opportunities for growth and development, and a work environment that fosters creativity, innovation, and collaboration.

Organizations apply the concept of Market Lead Talent to support their People Strategy by:

  • Identifying Key Skills: Determining the skills and competencies required to drive business success and identifying individuals who possess those skills.
  • Talent Acquisition: Developing a strong employer brand, leveraging diverse recruitment channels, and implementing structured interview processes to attract top talent.
  • Employee Development: Providing opportunities for growth and development, such as training programs, coaching, and mentoring, to help employees build new skills and enhance their performance.
  • Retention Strategies: Implementing retention strategies, such as competitive compensation and benefits, recognition programs, and career development opportunities, to retain top talent.
  • Performance Management: Establishing clear performance expectations and providing regular feedback to help employees stay on track and address any performance gaps.

What are the advantages for an organization to adopt a "Market Lead Talent" initiativeBy focusing on Market Lead Talent, organizations can gain a competitive advantage, drive business growth, and achieve their strategic objectives.


High-Performance Team:

A high-performance team is a group of individuals who work collaboratively to achieve shared goals efficiently and effectively. Key characteristics include:

  • Clear Goals and Objectives: Team members understand what they're working towards and how it contributes to the organization's success.
  • Diverse and Complementary Skills: Each member brings unique skills that complement others, enabling innovative problem-solving.
  • Effective Communication: Open, transparent, and multidirectional communication fosters collaboration and trust.
  • Strong Leadership: Leaders provide direction, motivation, and support, empowering team members to grow and contribute.
  • Adaptability and Flexibility: Teams quickly respond to changes, adjust strategies, and overcome challenges.
  • Results-Oriented: Teams consistently deliver high-quality results, focusing on outcomes and accountability.


Future-Ready Organization:

A future-ready organization is adaptable, agile, and equipped to navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing business landscape. Key ingredients include ³:

  • Empowering Leadership: Leaders empower teams to make decisions, take ownership, and drive innovation.
  • Continuous Learning: Organizations prioritize ongoing skill development, upskilling, and reskilling to stay ahead of industry trends.
  • Agility and Resilience: Organizations can respond quickly to changes, pivot when necessary, and maintain stability in times of turbulence.

A future-ready organization is adaptable, agile, and equipped to navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing business landscape. Key aspects of a people strategy for a future-ready organization include:

  • Skills-Based Hiring: Focusing on skills and capabilities rather than traditional qualifications, and upskilling/reskilling employees to meet evolving business needs.
  • Agentic AI: Leveraging AI to automate routine tasks, improve decision-making, and enhance employee experiences.
  • Personalized Employee Experience: Creating tailored experiences that prioritize employee well-being, development, and growth.
  • Predictive Analytics: Using data analytics to anticipate and respond to future challenges and opportunities.
  • Flexible Work Models: Implementing flexible work arrangements that support employee productivity, satisfaction, and retention.
  • Continuous Learning: Fostering a culture of continuous learning and development, with opportunities for employees to build new skills and adapt to changing business needs.
  • Diverse and Inclusive Culture: Building a culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion, and promotes employee engagement and innovation.
  • Strategic Workforce Planning: Developing a workforce strategy that aligns with business objectives and identifies opportunities for growth, innovation, and talent development.

To achieve these goals, organizations can invest in:

  • Leadership Development: Developing leaders who can navigate complexity, uncertainty, and change.
  • Digital Transformation: Leveraging technology to drive business innovation, efficiency, and growth.
  • Employee Engagement: Fostering a culture of engagement, motivation, and empowerment.

What are the advantages for an organization to adopt a Future Ready Organization initiative? Your organization will be adaptive, agile, and equipped to drive business success in a rapidly changing world.

To build high-performance teams and future-ready organizations, focus on fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

References




5. https://www.simplilearn.com: Building High Performing Teams


+++The End+++

Saturday, January 3, 2026

An Example of an Organization "People Strategy"

January 2, 2026, Singapore: The organization I worked for has developed a People Strategy framework, which comprises three key elements.

Market Leading Talent

Identify, attract, develop, and mobilize critical talent pools and pipeline across the Group to ensure current and future success

Focusing on (i) Workforce Planning, (ii) Skill-based development for all, and (iii) Critical pipeline development. 


High Performance Teams

Connect and enable mission-driven teams that create value for our customers and drive growth for the Group.

Focusing on (i) Positive Employee Relations, and (ii) People Leader Effectiveness.


Future Ready Organization

Ensure the right culture and organization to meet our commitments and enable future growth.

Focusing on (i) Culture transformation and Change, and (ii) Communities and Network activation.

The above are just a high-level of their people strategy framework. To make the people strategy a success, at the operational level, respective HR CoEs need to cascade their programs and toolkits to ensure that the people strategy is translated into actions, embraced by their people leaders, and internalized into work culture and daily practices.


I asked Meta AI - What is the difference between HR Strategy and People Strategy? Listed below are the replies!

***Meta AI***

The terms "HR strategy" and "people strategy" are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct differences in focus and scope:

HR Strategy:

Focuses on the administrative and operational aspects of human resources, such as talent acquisition, benefits, compliance, and employee relations.

Typically centered on HR functions, policies, and procedures.

Aimed at supporting the organization's overall business objectives through effective HR practices.

People Strategy:

Takes a more holistic approach, focusing on the human aspect of the organization and how people contribute to its success.

Encompasses not only HR functions but also organizational culture, employee experience, leadership development, and talent management.

Aimed at creating a work environment that attracts, retains, and develops top talent, driving business outcomes and growth.

In essence, HR strategy is a subset of people strategy. While HR strategy focuses on the operational aspects of human resources, people strategy takes a more strategic and human-centered approach, considering the organization's culture, values, and people dynamics.

Some key differences between HR strategy and people strategy include:

Focus: HR strategy focuses on HR functions and operations, while people strategy focuses on the human aspect of the organization and how people drive business outcomes.

Scope: HR strategy is typically narrower in scope, while people strategy takes a more holistic approach, considering the organization's culture, values, and people dynamics.

Objectives: HR strategy is aimed at supporting business objectives through effective HR practices, while people strategy is aimed at creating a work environment that attracts, retains, and develops top talent, driving business outcomes and growth.

By understanding the differences between HR strategy and people strategy, organizations can develop a more comprehensive approach to managing their human resources and driving business success.

***Meta AI***


References

www.lacepartners.com: HR Strategy Vs People Strategy: What is the difference?

www.linkedin.com: Prof. Dr. Lars B. Sonderegger

www.centreforassessment.co.uk: What is the difference between a People Strategy & HR Strategy

https://www.cultureamp.com/blog/what-is-people-strategy




+++The End+++