Strategic HR Digest Newsletter | Why Mentoring Might Be HR’s Biggest Untapped Advantage

Mentoring isn’t a nice-to-have—it’s a game changer.

In this short video, Catherine Hodgson, founder of SHIFT Mentoring and a global expert in mentoring strategy, shares why mentoring is one of the most powerful tools for building stronger leaders, boosting retention, and driving meaningful cultural change.

Whether you're trying to improve employee growth or create a more connected, high-performing organisation, mentoring can help you get there faster—and with more impact.

TALENT ASSESSMENT PLATFORM

Aon's newly launched People Insights platform leverages advanced, data-driven assessments to support talent acquisition and workforce development—particularly vital in regions like the Middle East where skilled talent is in short supply. By evaluating key competencies such as agility, adaptability, and learnability, the platform empowers HR leaders to make smarter hiring decisions, nurture high-potential talent, and strengthen long-term retention. For organisations navigating complex labour markets, Aon’s solution presents a scalable framework to align people strategy with business performance and future readiness.

EMPLOYEE WELL-BEING

Embedding a well-being culture alongside profitability and KPIs is crucial for Nigerian organisations, as emphasised by HR leaders at a talent management conference. Effective wellness programs involve leadership commitment, employee engagement, and metrics for success, ensuring that wellness is integrated into organisational culture. This approach is vital for fostering empowered and thriving work environments, where employee well-being is aligned with business outcomes.

WORKFORCE TRENDS

Genius Consultants' report reveals a promising hiring outlook for FY26, with 45% of employers planning new permanent hires and a prominent shift towards flexible staffing. Mid-level professionals are in demand (37%), with entry-level and senior roles slightly trailing. Sectors like retail, eCommerce, and technology are poised for growth, emphasizing the need for businesses to focus on talent retention amidst economic uncertainties.

MENTAL HEALTH PRIORITISATION

A growing shift in employee expectations places mental health ahead of higher salaries, with 70% now prioritising emotional wellbeing over pay increases. With 80% attributing poor mental health to work-related factors—especially stress and burnout—organisations face mounting pressure to reframe their employee value propositions. Flexible working, proactive support systems, and better communication of mental health resources are no longer optional—they're strategic imperatives. Notably, nearly half of employees haven’t used the support on offer, highlighting a critical need for accessibility and awareness in HR-led wellbeing programmes.

HR TECHNOLOGY

Shopify has mandated AI integration into employee performance reviews, positioning AI as an essential skill rather than a mere tool. This shift urges HR professionals to reassess productivity benchmarks, emphasising skill expansion and flexible capabilities. Organisations are encouraged to create safe spaces for AI exploration to enhance workplace dynamics and foster collaborative learning.

AI IN RECRUITMENT

AI-powered recruitment may miss valuable personal attributes due to strict reliance on objective criteria, creating a cold environment for job seekers. Feedback to unsuccessful candidates often lacks; providing detailed, constructive responses could improve future prospects and foster a positive organisational reputation. Organisations can benefit from balancing automated processes with empathetic, human-centric approaches.