A featured contribution from Leadership Perspectives: a curated forum reserved for leaders nominated by our subscribers and vetted by our Manufacturing Outlook APAC Advisory Board.



In a few words, could you take us through your professional background and your current role and responsibilities at Nissan Philippines, Inc.?
Reneth or Neth is a seasoned HR executive, Certified Total Rewards Specialist (CTRS), Certified Situational Leadership Workshop Facilitator (Blanchard International), licensed Real Estate Broker (REB), licensed Financial Advisor (life, VUL and non-life), and Certified Safety Officer 2 (SO2) practitioner.
Reneth has been in the practice of human resources management, compensation and benefits, labor relations, organizational development, and strategic HR for over 27 years. Currently, Reneth is the Talent Acquisition and General Affairs Head of Human Resources and General Affairs Division of Nissan Philippines. She is also the Chairman of the Occupational Safety and Health Committee of the company.
What tools or technologies do you rely on most to streamline talent acquisition processes?
To streamline talent acquisition processes in Nissan Philippines, Inc., several key technologies are leveraged, including Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), AI-powered tools for sourcing and screening, and video interviewing platforms. These tools automate tasks, improve efficiency, and enhance the overall candidate experience.
What are the most significant changes you have seen in talent acquisition over the past few years, and how have these shifts impacted your strategy?
The most significant changes in talent acquisition over the past few years include a surge in technology adoption, particularly AI and automation, a shift towards skills-based hiring, and a greater emphasis on employer branding and candidate experience. These shifts have impacted talent acquisition strategies by necessitating a more agile and data-driven approach, prioritizing candidate experience, and requiring a focus on developing strong employer brands.
Companies are focusing on showcasing their values, culture, and commitment to diversity and inclusion to attract candidates who align with their mission. Providing a positive candidate experience, from application to onboarding, is also essential for attracting and retaining top talent.
Monitor the experiences of candidates throughout the recruitment process. Assess factors like application drop-off rates, interview satisfaction, and candidate Net Promoter Scores (NPS). An enjoyable and efficient recruitment process can enhance your employer brand and lead to better hires.
Artificial intelligence and advanced Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are now crucial tools for streamlining the hiring process. AI helps with resume screening, candidate matching, and even predicting future performance, while ATS systems automate tasks like scheduling interviews, freeing up recruiters for more strategic activities.
There is a noticeable shift away from traditional resumebased hiring towards skills-based assessments. This approach focuses on identifying candidates based on their demonstrated abilities rather than just experience or qualifications, leading to a more diverse and qualified talent pool.0
Data analytics also plays a vital role in optimizing talent acquisition. Analyzing data on candidate sources, application processes, and hiring outcomes helps identify areas for improvement and refine strategies to attract and retain the best talent.
“The grass is greener where you choose to water it. Growth in HR, like in life, is about commitment, not comparison.”
The concept of a hybrid workforce has evolved as well, with organizations now designing talent acquisition strategies around this model, rather than just accommodating remote work.
What advice would you offer to young professionals looking to build successful careers in human resource management?
One of the best pieces of advice for young HR professionals is to love your work, understand your weaknesses and hone your strengths. This will help you figure out what you need to work on and who to ask for help from when working on a project or team.
One of my favorite facets of HR is recruitment/talent acquisition. Recruitment for me is like doing my favorite hobby and being paid for it at the same time. When you are passionate about your work, you are more likely to be motivated, focused, and efficient. Your enthusiasm for your work can inspire others, creating a positive and motivating environment.
It is also helpful to build a professional network that prioritizes mentorship, development and personal growth. This can contribute to your own advancements as an HR professional. As you learn from the people around you, your own work may begin to improve.
It is important to remember that everyone has different goals and a unique career path. It is best to focus on your individual path rather than comparing your professional development to that of your coworkers. In the field of HR, there are many different paths that people may take. Additionally, try to encourage your coworkers when they experience advancement in their careers. This encouragement may lead to a collaborative and caring workplace rather a competitive one.
Another strategy is to develop robust goals that encourage you to continue growing. Whether your accomplishments occur within your workplace or on your own time, it is important to motivate yourself to continue developing well into your career.
And lastly, the grass is not always greener on the other side of the fence. The reality is, the grass is rarely greener on the other side, but it is always greener where you choose to water it. Take care of your own grass and bloom where you are planted. And before you know it, it will be greener on your side.