In episode 757 of HRchat, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Kevin McDonald, VP of People Services and Insights at The E.W. Scripps Company. Kevin is not only a friend but also one of the most insightful professionals I know in the HR space. His ability to bridge the gap between HR transformation and analytics makes him an invaluable resource for companies looking to harness the full potential of their people.
Why People Metrics Matter
During our conversation, Kevin shared a perspective that resonated deeply with me: “People metrics are business metrics.” As Kevin pointed out, the most significant expense for many companies is their people. When a valued employee walks out the door, it’s not just about the cost of hiring a replacement—there are hidden costs, like the loss of institutional knowledge and relationships. Understanding this helps HR leaders make more informed decisions about talent management.
AI and HR Transformation
Kevin also talked about how Scripps is embracing AI to improve efficiency. One example that stood out was their use of AI to analyze thousands of open-ended survey comments. Instead of manually sifting through them, they used AI to identify overall sentiments and actionable insights. This saved the team significant time and provided a clearer picture of where leadership should focus their efforts.
While AI is still in its early stages in HR, Kevin is optimistic about its potential to uncover insights that can improve both operational efficiency and the employee experience.
Leadership Through Listening
One of the most important takeaways from my conversation with Kevin was the importance of listening. His team at Scripps places a strong emphasis on listening to employees—not just through annual surveys, but through regular pulse surveys and ongoing conversations. As Kevin noted, “It’s not just about the data; it’s about having meaningful conversations.”
This approach is something I’m particularly passionate about as well. Leadership starts with listening, and when you create space for honest dialogue, you unlock the potential to lead with empathy and understanding.
Building a Stronger Culture
Kevin and I also explored the role of leadership in shaping company culture. We agreed that employees experience culture primarily through their direct managers. It’s one thing to have values on the wall, but it’s the everyday actions of leaders that define the true culture of an organization. The challenge for HR leaders is to ensure that the stated values match the lived experiences of their teams.
If you’re a leader looking for practical insights on how to connect with your team, foster engagement, or explore the potential of AI in HR, I highly recommend this episode. Kevin’s expertise on people metrics, leadership, and culture offers valuable takeaways for organizations of all sizes.
Listen now to HRchat and join me as I dive into these important topics with Kevin McDonald. You won’t want to miss it.