Not sure what to expect in 2024 in terms of HR? You've come to the right place! As we are preparing to step into 2024, human resources professionals and employers must be ready to adapt to HR trends shaping the workforce. In this blog post, we will explore key HR trends that demand attention, shedding light on the transformative power of AI and automation, the increasing importance of employee experience, and the shift toward flexible working arrangements.
AI and Automation
The integration of artificial intelligence and automation stands at the forefront of HR innovation. These technologies promise to revolutionise decision-making processes, enhancing efficiency and promoting fairness in the workplace. As an HR professional, staying ahead of these advancements is crucial to remain competitive and create a technologically skilled workplace.
Examples of AI being used are:
In recruitment to analyse CV’s, draft emails, and make decisions about who to hire.
It can be used to analyse employee performance and schedule reviews automatically.
Onboarding and offboarding AI platforms ensure that employees receive the same experience and it’s positive, they know all the information they need to know. This allows employees to feel welcome and less stressed than they might be without the AI platforms.
Other areas AI is useful in HR are training and development, workforce planning, employee engagement initiatives, HR chatbots, and virtual assistants.
Changes to Flexible Working
While some organisations are still considering a return to the office post-COVID, it is important to acknowledge the changing expectations of employees. According to 2024 trends report from Qualtrics, employees now prioritise a better workplace experience and value the flexibility of hybrid working. To retain top talent, HR professionals and employers need to navigate the delicate balance between organisational needs and employee expectations.
As the workforce becomes more discerning, employers must pay attention to what employees want. The demand for a better work-life balance has prompted legislative action, such as the Flexible Working Request bill. This bill grants workers the right to request flexible working from day one, compelling employers to consider requests and provide transparent reasons for rejection. CIPD research clarifies the significance of flexibility, revealing that a lack thereof led to a significant number of job changes and exits from positions.
There is utmost importance for organisations changing their working practices to better suit employees and their need for flexibility.
Employee Engagement vs. Stress
While employee engagement remains high, an opposite trend emerges—stress. Studies indicate that over half of employees express intent to leave their positions. This presents a critical challenge for HR professionals and employers to address, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to manage stress and prevent talent attrition. Have you noticed an increase in the number of meetings you're holding regarding stressed or overwhelmed employees?
Recommendations
Due to these trends, in 2024, we recommend you:
Invest in training your HR staff or line managers in best managing stress with employees, this will ensure that employees are best supported and remain engaged.
Review your flexible working policy and update your employees on the changes. Ensure that HR staff and line managers are aware of employees rights under the new legislation. Also, look at additional ways you may be able to offer flexible working practices such as core working hours, working from home, TOIL where these are not already implemented.
Carry out a thorough Employee Engagement Survey, and publish the results along with any actions the organisation will take to improve areas where improvement is required. This will show employees that you're committed to improving employees' issues and concerns, also that they are heard and valued.
Enhance AI, and look to upskill your HR employees or managers. There are many free training opportunities available. Employees may fear that their jonb will be replaced, however, learning to work with AI, can enhance the capabilities of your employees.
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