Last week, the Centre Beaulieu in Lausanne buzzed with energy as HR professionals from across Switzerland convened for the annual Salon RH Human Resources conference. This two-day event brought together industry leaders, innovators, and practitioners to exchange insights on the ever-evolving challenges and opportunities in the field of human resources.
Dynamic Discussions and Key Themes
The conference tackled pressing topics across multiple themes, including:
- Digital transformation
- Employee well-being
- Diversity and inclusion
- Talent acquisition and retention
- Sustainability and ethics
AI and digital innovation were recurring themes throughout the sessions. The advantages of AI in facilitating recruitment, assessing leadership styles, and creating successful teams were explored.
However, the dynamic presentation by headhunter Guillaume Alexander of Gates Solutions truly stole the show. With a packed audience craning their necks to catch his keynote address, Alexander predicted exponential transformation in the workplace between 2025 and 2028.
He highlighted how automation could render many jobs redundant, making soft skills increasingly critical as AI replaces numerous hard skills. Citing a Gallup poll, he noted that while 67 percent of employees have never used AI, almost half of those who do report significantly increased productivity. Alexander’s speech underscored the urgent need for education and upskilling in AI to facilitate its broader adoption.
In another impactful session, Agnieszka Bala of the energy trading company Gunvor shared actionable strategies for fostering inclusivity and diversity. Drawing on concrete examples from her workplace—a traditionally male and non-diverse industry—her presentation resonated with attendees seeking tangible solutions for creating equitable environments.
Interactive Workshops and Practical Insights
Salon RH’s emphasis on interactivity set it apart. A digital detox workshop by Mario Sgarrella of unpluggo encouraged participants to declutter their digital lives, with live demonstrations of app deletion. Attendees also explored team-building ideas and solutions to workplace challenges, including legal aspects such as office conflicts and sexual harassment.
Recognising Excellence
The Best Workplaces in Suisse Romande 2023 awards ceremony was a highlight of the event. Geneva-based tech firm Alohi, renowned for simplifying business management, was one of the commended organizations. Other notable winners from Geneva included Interiman recruitment specialists, Piguet Galland, the InterContinental and Crowne Plaza hotels, and EMS Les Marronniers. These awards celebrated organizations that excel in fostering innovation, inclusivity, and employee satisfaction.
Fuel for Networking
The event provided ample networking opportunities. Attendees rekindled old connections and made new ones over coffee. Thoughtfully located water stations, sponsored by Kärcher, ensured everyone stayed hydrated, while FELFEL kept energy levels high with offerings such as healthy salmon poke bowls and indulgent brownies.
A Memorable Conclusion
As the event ended, attendees departed with smiles, business cards, and fresh ideas. Some lingered for a relaxing aperitif, while others, like myself, took the opportunity to explore the Titanic exhibition in the hall below. Whether brainstorming the future of HR or building new connections, Salon RH 2024 proved to be a dynamic forum for professional growth and innovation.
The momentum of this year's event sets the stage for next year’s forum to offer innovative solutions to the ever-evolving challenges of the HR landscape.
Images: Nesrin Everett
Further articles:
Le Manager Coach : Une profession en émergence au cœur des grandes entreprises by João Encarnação
