In many companies, HR departments continue to lag behind other functions when it comes to using data in ways that'll maximize engagement and retention rates. Some companies are not doing anything, most are mired in basic operational reporting, and only a small amount is actually practicing advanced or predictive analytics.In this HRchat, we consider why the best HRpractices are based on cold, hard data and how HR pros can better leverage analytics to make informed decisions. Our returning guest is Matthew Hamilton, Head of HR Strategy and People Analytics at Protective Life. Interview Questions Include:Why is it important for HR to have data-driven and analytical skills? Can you give examples of how people analytics can help or enhance HR?Do you find that the HR community is still hesitant to base the assessment of employee performance on cold, hard data? If so, why?As Head of HR Strategy and People Analytics at Protective Life, what are the most important metrics you look at when assessing employee and team performance? Have the metrics changed during the pandemic? Can you share any best practices for using data to better listen to and support employees during this new normal? And what are the best ways/approach to measure the engagement of new hires to max retention rates? Where does a data specialist come in to prevent attrition? Can you share some of your predictions for the evolution of people analytics over the next 12-24 months?We do our best to ensure editorial objectivity. The views and ideas shared by our guests and sponsors are entirely independent of The HR Gazette, HRchat Podcast, and Iceni Media Inc.  Support the showFeature Your Brand on the HRchat PodcastThe HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score. Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here. Follow us on LinkedIn Subscribe to our newsletter Check out our in-person events