Page 16 - Islands Business October 2024 edition

Navigating HR Challenges in the Happiest Nation on Earth
This year, Vanuatu proudly claimed and accessing data easier, their growing
the top spot on the Happy Planet Index use in job applications has made it harder to
for the second time since its inception in accurately assess candidates’ true skills and
2006, surpassing 149 other countries. This experiences. As more applicants use AI to
ranking reflects our nation’s commitment enhance their résumés and cover letters, HR
to well-being, sustainable living, and professionals are facing additional challenges
harmony within our communities. While in shortlisting and evaluation.
Vanuatu is undeniably a place of happiness To compound these difficulties, Vanuatu
and contentment, the business sector, does not yet have a formal HR association.
particularly in HR, faces ongoing challenges. Although the VCCI and the Tripartite
A recent Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce Labour Advisory Council (which includes
and Industry’s (VCCI) Private Sector representatives from trade unions, the
Economic Update published earlier this Department of Labour, and the VCCI) offer
year, and a more recent VCCI Business excellent advocacy, there remains a gap in
Sentiment survey which explores the professional support for HR practitioners.
impacts of the Air Vanuatu crisis, paint a This lack of a centralised HR network leaves
different picture. They highlight the strain on professionals to navigate complex issues on
businesses and companies (and their HR their own, without the benefit of a shared
practitioners) who are working harder than ever to ensure their organisations knowledge base or unified voice.
have the skilled workforce needed to meet their goals. The demand for talent is However, change is on the horizon. Link Personnel Services is committed
particularly high as businesses grapple with workforce shortages, largely due to establishing a core network of HR professionals in Vanuatu. Our vision
to national labour migration policies. is to foster collaboration, share best practices, and advocate for stronger
While these policies contribute significantly to Vanuatu’s economy by HR development across the country. By building this community, we aim to
bringing in remittances, they have downstream effects. Thousands of workers enhance productivity, promote workforce sustainability, and ensure that
participate in seasonal work programs, which exacerbates shortages in key Vanuatu remains not just the happiest nation, but also one where organisations
industries such as tourism and construction. The legislated two-week notice and their employees can thrive.
period often leaves employers with little time to find replacements, leading to We are actively seeking champions to support this initiative. If you’re
disruptions and added costs for businesses that may already be understaffed. passionate about HR and want to make a difference, reach out to us! Your
In addition, the evolving landscape of labour laws presents further involvement can help pave the way for a more structured and supportive HR
challenges. Despite efforts by Vanuatu’s Department of Labour to consolidate environment in Vanuatu.
employment legislation, small yet impactful changes introduced via the Statute Join us as we take the next step in Vanuatu’s HR evolution—because
Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act make it difficult for employers to stay together, we can achieve great things!
compliant. Businesses often struggle to keep up with these updates which
complicates budgeting for personnel costs and maintaining legal compliance. Lenise Monteiro
The rapid rise of AI tools, such as ChatGPT, has further transformed the Managing Director
HR landscape. While these platforms have made drafting communications www.linkps.com
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16 Islands Business, October 2024