Photo by cottonbro studio
The workforce spent 2023 dealing with disruptions. Unions on strike, the influence of ArtIficial Intelligence (AI), mass layoffs, and too many more to list here. Relationships between employers and employees can be challenging under the best conditions. Throw in a wrinkle like negotiating remote/hybrid business models and soon you are managing change more than you are serving customers. With 2024 rapidly approaching, what issues should you pay attention to?
Remote and Hybrid
The seismic shift towards remote work that began as a temporary fix to keep businesses open during COVID-19 is here to stay.
Employers: Invest in tools that secure data and facilitate seamless collaboration across geographically dispersed teams. For example, Microsoft Teams, Slack, Basecamp, etc.
Employees: Hone your digital communication skills and set up a remote workspace conducive to this new work environment. For example, adequate lighting, a neutral background, and a quality headset for videoconferencing.
Upskilling and Reskilling
Normalize continuous learning. Technology renders some skills obsolete and creates demand for new ones faster than you think. AI is a great example.
Employers: Provide training to help your workforce collaborate effectively with AI.
Employees: Acquire a basic understanding of AI and identify ways to leverage it in your role. LinkedIn Learning has some great courses. They are free if you have a Dayton Metro Library card.
And don’t forget the importance of soft skills, or what I like to call, power skills.
Employers: Positively reinforce qualities like emotional intelligence, adaptability, empathy, and effective communication in your workforce.
Employees: Develop those power skills mentioned above. They will enhance your individual performance and make your work environment more positive and collaborative.
DEIB
Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) are no longer just buzzwords. They are critical components of a thriving workplace.
Employers: Prioritize DEIB initiatives. They not only foster a culture of innovation in your organization, they also help you reach new customers.
Employees: Volunteer to be on project teams whose members do not look like you.
Well-being
There is a link between a healthy, engaged workforce and overall business success.
Employers: Offer initiatives like mental health support, flexible work hours, and wellness programs in your employee benefits package.
Employees: If your employer does not offer such initiatives, then prioritize work-life integration, set boundaries, and communicate openly to your manager about your well-being.
Gig Economy
You know the gig economy is a thing when the IRS has a Gig Economy Tax Center page on its website. Understanding how to navigate and thrive in the gig economy is a valuable skill for both employers and employees.
Employers: Tap into the gig economy to access specialized skills on a project by project basis.
Employees: Embrace the freedom and autonomy it affords and check the employee handbook for the rules around moonlighting.
Ethics
Corporate social responsibility and environmental sustainability are no longer optional. Employees are increasingly seeking employers who align with their values and contribute positively to society.
Employers: Integrate sustainability practices into your operations to attract the talent you need.
Employees: Consider the moral and social impact of your organization’s actions. It has a direct impact on the culture of your workplace.
Technology advancements and societal changes are constants every year. A heightened awareness of the importance of a holistic approach to work is a recent transformation that will continue in 2024. The trick for both employers and employees is how to use these trends to drive success both for your organization and your team.
What 2024 trends did I miss? Please share in the comments.