While the changes in the way we work are impacting all employees, the ones who have to deal with employee-related issues – HR professionals – are perhaps those who are impacted the most.
Emerging trends in HR reflect the changing landscape of work, as well as advances in technology and evolving professional values. Let’s explore some of the key emerging trends in human resources that human resources qualifications are evolving to help HR professionals deal with.
Remote work
Remote work has become more common in recent years, and the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated this trend even further. Many companies have shifted to remote or hybrid working arrangements, and this has had a significant impact on HR.
HR professionals have had to adapt to remote recruitment and onboarding processes, as well as new policies and procedures around remote work, such as cybersecurity measures and ensuring work-life balance.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
DEI has become a critical focus area for HR, as companies strive to create a more diverse and inclusive workplace. This includes hiring practices, as well as policies around pay equity, unconscious bias, and workplace culture. HR professionals are increasingly working with DEI experts to create and implement strategies that promote diversity and inclusivity, and the results are highly promising. You can gain insights into your business’ diversity and inclusion policies by using a survey from Divrsity. Their software is trusted by companies that have 20 to 20,000 staff.
Data analytics
We have access to more data than ever before, and this is just as true in HR. HR professionals are increasingly using data analytics to inform their decisions and strategies – this includes everything from analysing employee engagement surveys, to predicting turnover rates.
With the rise of artificial intelligence and machine learning, HR professionals are able to use data to make more informed decisions about pretty much everything, from hiring criteria to employee development.
Employee experience
Focusing on employee experience has become a top priority for HR professionals, as companies recognise that a positive employee experience leads to higher retention rates and better productivity.
HR professionals are focusing on creating a more engaging and satisfying workplace, with an emphasis on employee well-being, flexibility, and career growth opportunities.
Skills development
With the rapid pace of technological change and the shift to a more knowledge-based economy, HR professionals are focusing on skills development.
This includes offering training and development opportunities and creating career progression plans. Companies are also starting to partner with educational institutions, to provide employees with access to cutting-edge training and development programs.
Gig economy
The gig economy, characterised by short-term contracts and freelance work, has become increasingly prevalent. HR professionals are grappling with how to integrate gig workers into their organisations. They need to provide benefits and opportunities for professional development to employees on these flexible contracts.
HR professionals are also partnering with gig economy platforms to source and recruit gig workers for specific projects or tasks. This means increasing productivity and efficiency.
The emerging trends in human resources reflect several different challenges and opportunities in the workplace. HR professionals are adapting to new technologies, social values, and workplace norms to create more engaging and inclusive workplaces. With an emphasis on employee experience, skills development, and diversity, equity, and inclusion, HR professionals are poised to play a critical role in shaping the future of work.