MAPPING THE FUTURE: OPPORTUNITIES & PITFALLS OF AI IN TALENT MANAGEMENT IN THE TELECOM SECTOR OF BANGLADESH

Abstract

The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is quick to reshape the Talent Management practices worldwide, with the telecom sector in Bangladesh beginning to embrace this transformation faster than most others. This study explores the integration of AI in 03 critical Talent Management functions: (a) Recruitment and Selection, (b) Training, and (c) Performance Management, through a qualitative inquiry. Data were collected via a focus group discussion with 08 HR managers representing leading telecom firms in Bangladesh. The findings of the study revealed that AI has streamlined: (a) Recruitment processes by supporting job description development, candidate sourcing, and initial screening, though reliance remains partial due to concerns about contextual accuracy and potential bias. (b) In training, AI tools are being leveraged to design personalized learning paths and identify skill gaps, yet human oversight remains vital to ensure relevance and mitigate risks of reduced coaching. (c) In performance management, AI-driven analytics are increasingly used for tracking, reviewing, and summarizing employee performance, helping reduce managerial workload and enhance objectivity. However, barriers such as data privacy concerns, subscription costs, and dependence on third-party platforms constrain full adoption. The study recommends a phased, hybrid adoption model, emphasizing affordable, task-specific solutions, robust data governance, and employee reskilling. The study also suggested gradual but structured integration of AI in HR functions, investment in context-specific AI solutions, and clear data governance frameworks. These steps are crucial for maximizing efficiency while safeguarding employee trust and organizational integrity in Bangladesh’s telecom sector.