Impressions from the “Zukunft Personal” Trade Show in Cologne
Three days, around 26,000 visitors, and a topic that was everywhere in Cologne: How will humans and AI work together in the future? Under the theme “TEAM HUMAN × AI,” Zukunft Personal Europe, held September 15–17, showcased the opportunities that new technologies open up for companies. Representing us on site were Managing Directors Hans-Peter Machwürth and Peter Friedhofen—for an interview and discussions with customers, partners, and HR leaders.
From Recruiting to Leadership
The program covered a wide range of topics, from recruiting and health to new HR technologies and how companies can make effective use of AI. In addition to addressing talent development during economically challenging times, our primary focus was on the topic of digital transformation as it relates to leadership and learning.
Our key takeaways regarding human resources development:
- Companies continue to invest in HR and leadership development —both in terms of content and budget.
- Consulting and development services must be systematically digitized for appropriate topics.
- The greatest impact comes from the smart combination of in-person learning, digital learning formats, and personalized support.
- Content must be available online at all times, as well as directly in HR SaaS platforms via LMS systems and APIs.
What is the most effective combination of in-person learning, digital learning, and AI-supported professional development?
The trade show highlighted just how many technical solutions for human resources development are now available. The key question, however, is which of these actually help companies move forward. “Coaching must be about fine-tuning,” Hans-Peter Machwürth emphasizes in a conversation with Gunnar Sohn.
In a brief interview, Hans-Peter Machwürth explains what “hyper-individualization of learning journeys” is all about and how it relates to the long-term success of employee development initiatives.
From Strategy to Change
Human resources development must also be viewed from a systemic perspective. For business strategies to be more than just theoretical formulas, the concept of transformation must be transparent. In this context, guidelines should be developed that describe how collaboration and leadership are to be put into practice. With the well-known saying, “It’s easier to build on strengths than to address weaknesses,” Mr. Machwürth emphasizes the importance of an open mindset for lifelong learning—not only within the company but also among employees. An understanding of different learning styles and pedagogical diversity in coaching and professional development is a key component of successful, sustainable human resources development. Whether this leads to change depends on how well the programs align with the individuals, their roles, and their organization.
We’re already addressing this need today through digital and hybrid learning journeys, as well as modern development formats such as our AI-powered conversation simulation, MTI CONVERSA. This allows leaders to practice difficult conversations in a safe environment even after the training is over. The AI takes on the role of the other person, responds to their statements, and then provides feedback. This allows them to try out different ways of phrasing things and reinforce what they’ve learned for conversations in their day-to-day work.
Would you like to see how MTI CONVERSA provides more sustainable and effective support for training?
We would be happy to introduce you to MTI CONVERSA in a brief, no-obligation online demonstration—using a typical conversation or training scenario from your company’s day-to-day operations, if you’d like.