In a recent LinkedIn post, Idris Akinlabi , PHRi™ MCIB discusses a refreshingly pragmatic approach to professional development within the Human Resources field, challenging the traditional emphasis on accumulating certificates.
Idris Akinlabi , PHRi™ MCIB highlights a personal journey focused on practical application and building solutions, rather than passive learning. He states:
“Instead, I built performance-review systems, career tools, email automations and workflows that removed repetitive work from my day.”
This approach, he suggests, is often viewed as an anomaly in HR circles. As Idris Akinlabi , PHRBI™ MCIB notes, “Apparently, an HR professional who enjoys building software is still considered a plot twist.” This sentiment underscores a potential disconnect between traditional HR expectations and the evolving skill sets needed in a tech-influenced workplace.
The Impact of AI on People Operations
Idris Akinlabi , PHRBI™ MCIB further explores how Artificial Intelligence has reshaped his perspective on People Operations. He argues that AI has enabled him to question and re-evaluate manual processes that were once considered standard job descriptions.
When faced with common workplace inefficiencies, such as employees struggling with forms, managers manually tracking reviews, or candidates submitting weak applications, Idris Akinlabi , PHRBI™ MCIB’s immediate response is now solution-oriented. He poses the question:
“Can I build something that fixes this?”
This proactive, problem-solving mindset, driven by the capabilities of modern technology, is a key theme in his post. The danger, as he points out, is that automating one process can lead to a critical re-evaluation of all existing systems:
“The dangerous part is that once you automate one frustrating process, every spreadsheet in the office begins to look suspicious.”
Execution Over Education: A New Paradigm?
Idris Akinlabi , PHRBI™ MCIB contrasts his hands-on experience with traditional educational pathways. He reveals that despite not completing a single formal course this year, his practical building activities have accelerated his learning in crucial areas.
He asserts that building has provided him with product thinking, automation, problem-solving, and practical AI skills at a pace far exceeding passive learning methods. While acknowledging the continued importance of formal courses, Idris Akinlabi , PHRBI™ MCIB questions the value of credentials without tangible results.
According to Idris Akinlabi , PHRBI™ MCIB, “Courses still matter, but certificates without evidence of execution are becoming expensive decorations in a global job market that rewards proof of work.” This perspective challenges the conventional wisdom of prioritizing certifications and instead advocates for a demonstrable track record of creating value.
The Hiring Manager’s Dilemma
To emphasize his point, Idris Akinlabi , PHRBI™ MCIB poses a direct question to potential employers:
“As a hiring manager, would you choose the candidate with ten new certificates or the one who built useful tools?”
This rhetorical question encapsulates his core argument: in today’s rapidly evolving job market, practical skills and a history of tangible accomplishments are increasingly valued over a collection of academic or professional certificates. His insights encourage HR professionals and business leaders to consider a more execution-focused approach to skill development and talent assessment.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Idris Akinlabi , PHRi™ MCIB on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on August 5, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →