Too Much Time Spent on Manual Tasks: A Major Challenge for HR Teams

Published on April 1, 2025

Too Much Time Wasted on Manual Tasks: A Major Challenge for HR Teams

The Hidden Cost of Administrative Overload

Human Resources departments are at the heart of company culture, talent management, and strategic transformation. But the truth is sobering: HR professionals are spending up to 80% of their time on repetitive administrative tasks, according to McKinsey.

In a recent project, an HR team reported spending 3 hours each day managing employee absences—manually. That’s 15 hours a week that could be redirected toward recruitment, training, or enhancing employee experience initiatives.

What Tasks Are Still Done Manually?

Despite advances in technology, many HR teams continue to rely on manual processes for daily operations. Here are some of the most common tasks still being handled without automation:

  • Employee leave and absence tracking
  • Timesheet collection and validation
  • Benefits enrollment and changes
  • Performance review scheduling
  • Onboarding and offboarding paperwork

How AI and Automation Are Reshaping HR Workflows

Artificial Intelligence is no longer a future trend—it's a present-day solution for overburdened HR teams. AI tools can automate repetitive tasks, reduce errors, and free HR professionals to focus on human-centric work.

Here are a few ways AI can support your HR department:

  1. Absence Management: Automate leave approval, balance calculation, and real-time tracking.
  2. Candidate Screening: AI can filter and rank applicants based on job criteria, saving days of manual review.
  3. Employee Queries: AI-powered chatbots can handle common questions about payroll, holidays, or policies 24/7.
  4. Document Generation: Automatically produce standard letters, contracts, and compliance reports.

Reinvesting Time In What Matters: Employee Experience

Imagine what your HR team could accomplish if they had an extra 10+ hours a week. From building a strong employer brand to launching leadership development programs, automation allows teams to focus on initiatives that create long-term value.

Better yet, this shift towards automation isn't just about saving time—it's about boosting employee satisfaction for both HR teams and the wider organization.

AI transforming HR operations

Start Automating Today

If your department is bogged down by manual tasks, it's time to rethink your processes. Even small changes—like automating absence tracking—can save hours each week.

Look for solutions tailored to HR automation and AI-driven HR processes. Fast deployment, quick wins, and greater focus on employee experience can start today.

Ready to Give Your HR Team Their Time Back?

It's never been easier to empower your HR professionals with cutting-edge automation. Start today and transform HR into a strategic powerhouse within your organization.

Learn more about how automation can simplify HR operations on our website www.predimail.com and follow us on LinkedIn for more updates on AI in HR.