The future is set to bring a significant shift in the world of work. The pandemic has accelerated digital transformation and revolutionised the dynamics between employers and employees. As organisations navigate this changing landscape, Human Resources (HR) professionals have a unique opportunity to reposition themselves and make a lasting impact on their organisations. In this article, we will explore 11 HR trends that are expected to shape the future of the workplace.
1. A Focus on Total Wellbeing
Organisations today are facing a hidden crisis of work-related stress and burnout. According to a study by UK mental health charity Mind, 60% of employees experienced a mental health problem due to work in the past year. In addition, concerns about compensation not keeping up with cost of living changes and inflation are widespread.
In line with this trend, HR professionals are expected to take a more proactive approach to employee wellbeing in 2023. This includes focusing on mental, physical, and financial wellbeing. A holistic approach that addresses the needs of employees and provides the necessary support systems will not only improve employee satisfaction and productivity but also contribute to the long-term success of the organisation.
2. Managing Workforce Ecosystems
Traditionally, HR has primarily focused on managing permanent employees. However, the rise of the gig economy and the increasing involvement of contractors and external contributors have created a complex workforce ecosystem for organisations to navigate. In the UK, the number of people on zero-hours contracts increased dramatically to almost a million in 2020.
To maximise the value created by this diverse workforce, HR professionals will need to actively manage and integrate temporary staff into the HR value chain. This not only ensures a more inclusive workplace but also mitigates risks associated with a disconnected workforce. Additionally, HR can play a crucial role in fostering collaboration and sharing best practices with supply chain partners, vendors, and service providers.
3. Redefining Remote and Hybrid Work Strategies
The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of remote and flexible working arrangements. According to research from the UK government, the proportion of adult workers who had ever worked from home increased from 26.5% in 2019 to 43.1% in 2020. Remote job opportunities, which make up about 8% of all jobs on Indeed UK, have seen an unprecedented increase in applications.
In 2023, HR practitioners will be responsible for redefining remote and hybrid work strategies within their organisations. This will involve setting clear principles and facilitating internal discussions on how, where, and when work is done. HR professionals will need to address challenges such as proximity bias, where employees working in the office may receive preferential treatment over remote workers. The role of the physical office will also be reimagined, with more emphasis on creating flexible spaces and upgrading home facilities for remote employees.
4. The Evolving Role of the CHRO
The Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) has emerged as a key player in organisations, especially during times of crisis. The CHRO has taken the lead in boardroom discussions related to policies, business continuity, recruitment and retention, employee safety, and productivity.
Moving forward, the CHRO is expected to solidify their position as an irreplaceable part of the board and a trusted advisor to the CEO. With employees placing more trust in their CEO than in any other leader, the CHRO will play a pivotal role in understanding and addressing employee sentiment, while providing valuable counsel on environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) goals.
5. HR Enters the Metaverse
The rise of virtual reality and the metaverse presents new opportunities for HR professionals in 2023. Gartner predicts that by 2026, 25% of people will spend at least one hour per day in the metaverse. HR practitioners can leverage virtual platforms to conduct employee onboarding, career fairs, and meetings in a more immersive and engaging manner.
Conclusion
As we step into 2023, the HR landscape is undergoing significant transformations. HR professionals in the UK have a unique window of opportunity to redefine the function's value proposition and drive positive change within their organisations. By prioritising employee wellbeing, managing diverse workforce ecosystems, redefining remote work strategies, understanding their evolving role in the boardroom, and exploring emerging technologies like the metaverse, HR professionals can create a thriving workplace that adapts to the changing needs of employees and the organisation as a whole.
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