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How AI and Empathy are Redefining Flexibility and Personalisation in Total Rewards
Flexibility and personalisation are key trends in total rewards, boosting engagement and loyalty. AI skills enable leaders to deliver customised benefits that meet diverse employee needs.
The Future of Total Rewards: Flexibility and Personalisation
As employee expectations shift and workforces become more diverse, flexibility and personalisation are becoming key trends in compensation and benefits (C&B). Reena Talla, Employee Experience Service Lead at Kerry Group, highlights the growing importance of offering flexible benefits that employees can select based on their individual needs.
From flexible working arrangements to customised wellness programmes, this approach boosts engagement, loyalty, and performance. But delivering personalised rewards at scale requires more than good intentions. It demands strategic planning, strong analytics, and empathy.
"AI proficiency is becoming increasingly important for rewards leaders," Talla explains. "Knowing how to use AI for predictive analytics, personalised rewards, and employee engagement will be a key differentiator."
In her role covering Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Europe, Talla leads initiatives to create enriching work environments aligned with Kerry’s goal of attracting top talent. She focuses on innovative programmes supporting wellbeing and fostering inclusivity, aiming to enhance employee engagement and satisfaction.
For Talla, the future of total rewards lies in combining technology with human connection to meet the changing needs of employees. Below is an edited Q&A highlighting her insights.
Q&A with Reena Talla
Q: How has the role of rewards in talent attraction and retention strategies evolved over the last five years, especially in the APAC region?
In the past five years, rewards have shifted from mainly financial compensation to a broader focus on the entire employee experience. Companies now integrate rewards with career development, work-life balance, and personalised recognition programmes. This helps attract and retain talent in a competitive market where employees seek more than just salary.
AI has also transformed rewards by enabling personalised programmes, predicting engagement levels, and flagging potential flight risks. Using AI to tailor rewards to individuals boosts satisfaction and retention.
Q: What is one C&B trend that you believe is powerful enough to stay for the long term?
Flexibility and personalisation stand out as long-term trends. A diverse workforce means varied needs and preferences. Offering flexible benefits lets employees pick what fits their unique situations. This includes options like flexible working hours and customised wellness plans. Giving employees control over their rewards improves satisfaction, engagement, and loyalty.
At Kerry, flexible benefits are offered in several countries, alongside flexible working arrangements in most.
Q: As a seasoned rewards/HR professional, what do you believe are the most important traits for rewards leaders of today and the future?
- Strategic thinking: Aligning compensation and benefits with business goals is critical.
- Adaptability: Leaders must pivot quickly and innovate amid changing conditions.
- Empathy: Understanding diverse employee needs fosters inclusivity and engagement.
- Analytical skills: Data-driven decision-making shows the impact of rewards initiatives.
- AI proficiency: Mastery of AI tools for predictive analytics and personalisation will set leaders apart.
Q: To end on a lighter note, what are the biggest misconceptions people have about total rewards?
Many people think total rewards only involve salary and bonuses. In truth, it covers career growth, recognition, health benefits, and work-life balance. Another myth is that total rewards are static and one-size-fits-all. Effective programmes adapt to changing employee needs to keep motivation high.
Some worry AI will replace the human element in rewards. Actually, AI enhances personalisation, helping employees feel valued and understood.
Q: What are you most looking forward to in your speaking engagement at #TotalRewardsAsiaSummitMY?
Talla looks forward to exchanging ideas with fellow HR and rewards professionals. She will present on balancing global mandates with local requirements to streamline rewards operations across regions. The event is a chance to explore new trends and collaborate on impactful rewards strategies that improve engagement and business outcomes.
For HR professionals interested in enhancing their AI skills to better personalise rewards, exploring targeted AI training can be valuable. Courses on predictive analytics and AI tools for HR can deepen expertise for the future of total rewards.