The Crucial Role of HR in Fostering Sustainability and Talent Development in Indian Businesses | Shika Bhatnagar | HR Director -HR | Noventiq

We live in the era of global challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and social inequality, the imperative for businesses to adopt sustainable practices has never been more pronounced.

Particularly in India, where economic growth and sustainability are closely intertwined, the role of Human Resources (HR) in driving these initiatives is pivotal. As HR Directors, plays a multifaceted role in fostering sustainability and talent development to lead our organizations towards more sustainable and responsible business models, not just as a moral duty but as a strategic imperative.

The approach to hiring and training entry-level employees can indeed have a profound impact on various aspects of an organization’s success, including innovation, productivity, and employee retention rates. As companies strive to bridge the skills gap and cultivate a dynamic workforce, understanding the best practices in hiring and training is more crucial than ever.

Best Practices for Hiring and Training for Sustainable Business Growth

1. Structured Onboarding Process: In a country as diverse as India, a well-structured onboarding process is vital for integrating new hires into the company culture, clarifying their roles and responsibilities, and fostering an understanding of the organizational commitment to sustainability. At Noventiq, for example, we facilitate interactions between new employees and colleagues from various teams, countries, and cultural backgrounds through HR Induction, Buddy Program & Business Induction. This initiative not only helps new hires grasp the essence of our business operations but also deeply embeds them into our culture of diversity and inclusion, which is essential for any global organization operating across multiple geographies.

2. Continuous Learning and Development: The dynamic nature of the tech industry, with its rapid technological advancements and evolving methodologies, requires continuous learning opportunities. Providing access to Blended Learning Approach, our collaboration with LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, certifications, and workshops ensures that employees’ skills remain cutting- edge and relevant. Initiatives like Noventiq’s Global Mentorship Program, which pairs employees with seasoned leaders for guidance and learning, exemplify our commitment to career development and sustainability by fostering a culture of continuous growth and innovation.

3. Performance Feedback and Career Development: Noventiq’s emphasis on performance feedback, career development, and aligning individual growth trajectories with sustainability goals reflects a proactive approach to employee engagement and development. Regular, constructive feedback sessions are crucial for helping entry-level employees gauge their progress and identify areas for improvement. By mapping out clear career progression paths, we motivate our workforce to aspire to greater heights within the organization, thereby ensuring a constant alignment of individual growth trajectories with our overarching sustainability goals.

4. Foster a Culture of Innovation: Noventiq’s initiative to foster a culture of innovation, particularly through leadership workshops focused on topics like the rise of AI and its implications for sustainability, demonstrates a commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends and driving meaningful change.

5. Training and Development for Sustainable Growth: Tailoring training programs to underscore the impact of employees’ actions on sustainability objectives is critical. These programs, coupled with leadership development initiatives, equip future leaders with the mindset to prioritize sustainability in their decision-making processes, thereby embedding it into the fabric of the organization.

With over 14 years of experience in HR across diverse companies, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolution of hiring and training practices. Having a culture of innovation is not enough if we do not have the right talent to drive it forward. That is why we are always looking for entry-level employees who have the passion, curiosity, and courage to challenge the status quo and bring new perspectives and solutions to our business. It’s about investing in the future of our company, our industry, and our region. By nurturing potential, promoting continuous learning, and fostering a culture of feedback and innovation, we pave the way for a workforce that is not only skilled and productive but also deeply engaged and committed to their roles and the overarching goals of sustainability and responsible business.