The Importance of Data and Upskilling in Driving Growth

 
 

Insights from Insight222 Peer Meeting NYC

The first North America Insight222 Peer Meeting of 2024, hosted by Colgate Palmolive, unfolded in the vibrant city of New York. It brought together people analytics professionals and industry experts for two days of insightful discussions, collaborative learning, and strategic networking.

With a line-up of five speaker sessions, attendees delved deep into the transformative potential of People Analytics. They also explored practical strategies for driving organisational growth through data-driven decision-making. 

Unveiling the Power of People Analytics for Business Growth

Linking back to Insight222's Eight Characteristics of Leading Companies in People Analytics, the Peer Meeting aimed to explore how these characteristics influence the adoption and success of People Analytics initiatives. As highlighted in Insight222's People Analytics Trends research, the importance of influence and value for the field of people analytics cannot be overstated. Developing relationships with C-suite and senior stakeholders and measuring and delivering value from people analytics efforts are essential for driving impactful outcomes.

Each session provided invaluable insights:

8 Characteristics of Leading Companies. (Source: Insight222 People Analytics Trends Report 2023)

  1. Sally Massey's Conversation highlighted the importance of data and upskilling in driving growth, emphasising leveraging insights for influence.

  2. Colgate Palmolive’s Success through Partnerships explored how strategic partnerships and data governance pave the way for successful People Analytics initiatives.

  3. Driving Business Outcomes at Colgate Palmolive featured how insights-driven decision-making and storytelling can drive impactful outcomes in People Analytics.

  4. Establishing People Analytics as Common Practice with Patrick Coolen and Brydie Lear delved into the factors influencing the adoption of People Analytics, aligning with Insight222's research.

  5. Influencing Senior Stakeholders presented by Piyush Mathur offered practical strategies for amplifying the voice of People Analytics within organisations, drawing from industry expertise.

These sessions set the stage for dynamic discussions and networking opportunities. They allowed attendees to gain actionable insights and forge connections that will drive their people analytics initiatives forward.

Day 1 Recap: People Analytics Success Stories at Colgate Palmolive 

The first day of the New York Insight222 Peer Meeting hosted by Colgate Palmolive commenced with a captivating conversation with Sally Massey, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Colgate Palmolive. Sally’s journey, shared with candour and insight, provided a backdrop for understanding the transformative power of People Analytics. From her unexpected entry into HR to her current role steering HR strategy at Colgate Palmolive, Sally’s narrative highlighted the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. 

Sally’s emphasis on the symbiotic relationship between data and experience resonated deeply with attendees. She highlighted the need for HR professionals to not only possess analytical skills but also a nuanced understanding of consumer behaviour and organisational dynamics.

Her call for upskilling in data literacy, particularly within the HR Leadership Team, echoed throughout the day, setting the tone for discussions on the evolving role of HR in driving organisational growth.

Success stories through partnerships took centre stage as Colgate Palmolive's teams shared their collaborative efforts and the evolution of people analytics within the organisation, from initial setbacks to informed investments.

Courtney McMahon’s exploration of data foundations and the journey towards AI-driven insights provided a glimpse into the future of People Analytics, emphasising the organisation's commitment to harnessing data for strategic decision-making.

The day concluded with insightful discussions on driving business outcomes through People Analytics, highlighting the importance of data governance, storytelling, and roadshows in maximising People Analytics impact. Attendees left inspired by the innovative initiatives and practical insights shared by Colgate Palmolive's People Analytics team, eager to apply and share these lessons within their own organisations.

Day 2: Building a Culture of People Analytics & Influencing Leadership 

The second day of the Insight222 Peer Meeting commenced with thought-provoking sessions led by Patrick Coolen and Brydie Lear, exploring the factors influencing the adoption and institutionalisation of People Analytics as a common practice. Patrick's academic insights, aligned with Insight222's research, provided a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with embedding people analytics within organisations.

Attendees were particularly intrigued by Brydie’s emphasis on the role of leadership dynamics and product mindset in driving organisational change through people analytics, referencing Insight222's People Analytics Project Prioritisation methodology.

Her pragmatic approach to prioritisation and strategy fit resonated with people analytics professionals grappling with the complexities of people analytics implementation in diverse organisational contexts. Among the wealth of insights shared, Brydie highlighted the need to "put data back in people's hands," emphasising the crucial role of democratising data access within organisations for agility.

Piyush Mathur's session on influencing senior stakeholders offered valuable strategies for amplifying the voice of People Analytics within organisations. Emphasising the importance of aligning People Analytics initiatives with business priorities and measuring outcomes to demonstrate value, Piyush’s lessons provided actionable insights for People Analytics leaders seeking to drive impactful change.

Four value outcomes of people analytics. (Source: Insight222 People Analytics Trends Report 2023)

His insights were further enriched by references to Dave Ulrich's insights shared on the Insight222 Digital HR Leaders podcast, "content is king and context is kingdom," underscoring the importance of delivering meaningful insights within the appropriate organisational context and importance of putting people first to unlock the true power of people. 

Driving Change & Unlocking People Analytics Potential

As the North America Insight222 Peer Meeting drew to a close, attendees departed with a wealth of insights and a renewed sense of purpose. From Sally Massey's inspirational journey to the practical wisdom shared by industry experts like Patrick Coolen, Brydie Lear, and Piyush Mathur, each session deepened attendees' understanding of people analytics role in shaping organisational strategy and driving business outcomes. 

The event served as a catalyst for collaboration and innovation, fostering connections and sparking conversations that will continue long after the meeting finishes. As organisations navigate the complexities of an increasingly data-driven world, the insights gleaned from the Peer Meeting will serve as a guiding light, empowering people analytics professionals to harness the power of People Analytics to drive meaningful change and unlock the full potential of their organisations.

As someone who has enjoyed Insight222 Peer Meetings as a previous client, I can confidently say that these peer meetings offer a unique opportunity to talk candidly, network, and learn so much more about what companies are doing in a relaxed environment. If you’re interested in learning more about the Insight222 People Analytics Program, please reach out to us.  


Unlock the potential of your people analytics function with our Insight222 People Analytics Program®

At Insight222, our mission is to make organisations better by putting people analytics at the centre of business and upskilling the HR profession The Insight222 People Analytics Program® is your gateway to a world of knowledge, networking, and growth. Developed exclusively for people analytics leaders and their teams, the program equips you with the tools, insights, and connections you need to create greater impact.organisation.