Hays, the global leader in workforce solutions and specialist recruitment, has carried out analysis to reveal the six top workplace trends for 2024 across key global markets.
In 2024 organisations are expected to focus on skills in hiring, providing new opportunities for employees. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion will be pivotal for many companies, with some already coming under scrutiny after deprioritising DE&I development. Moreover, there are ongoing discussions around hybrid working, the AI revolution, and the multi-generational workforce.
Focus on your skills
In order to find the right talent, organisations are increasingly hiring professionals based on their skills rather than their education and experience. In 2024 we will see this trend continue to grow as companies struggle to find the necessary skills. Industries such as sustainability are expected to see a greater focus on skill-based hiring, due to a lack of experienced professionals. Jobseekers who are considering changing careers or sectors should highlight their transferable skills when applying for roles.
Professionals should also focus on the skills that are in most demand from organisations. According to Hays’ global data, including Europe, North America, and the UK*, the most in demand soft skills for 2024 will be self-motivation, teamwork, communication, attention to detail and coordination.
Full-time office vs hybrid and remote working
Working from home might be one of the most impactful remnants of the COVID-19 pandemic, with many workplaces continuing to offer greater flexibility. However, 2023 saw some organisations increasing the number of days their workforce was expected back into the office, with some even stating that workers must be in five days a week.
The debate looks set to continue in 2024 with many in the world of work divided on the topic. Jobseekers should consider what is important to them when looking for a new role. By offering hybrid or remote working to employees, organisations have a greater chance of retaining and attracting professionals in a skill-short world. Flexibility allows employees to balance their work with other commitments, can improve employee satisfaction, and enhance diversity by opening the workplace to a greater range of potential candidates. If employers want the very best talent, they should consider their own hybrid working policies.
Upskilling key to the AI revolution
Generative AI began to impact the world of work in 2023 and is set to continue doing so in 2024. While some workers might see generative AI as a threat, it has the potential to remove some of the more administrative tasks from roles, freeing up time to focus on more value-add activities that can only be performed by humans. It also presents workers with the opportunities to upskill for the AI revolution, increasing their employability. We see employees not only upskilling to use the new technology such as prompt engineering, but also to develop the AI software.
Be a part of – and benefit from – the multi-generational workforce
It is the first time that five generations will be working together, and with that comes challenges and opportunities. This will create new workplace dynamics, and with another generation entering the workforce, commentary has focused on Gen Z placing greater value on DE&I topics, social justice, and actively seeking out workplaces that align with their values, rather than just salary – highlighting the difference in priorities. However, there are many benefits to multiple generations coming together in the workplace, including increased diversity and inclusion which in turn can lead to more creativity and innovation. In addition, each generation can benefit from the skills and experience of the others, helping to improve learning and adaptability.
In 2024, we are ready to see how Gen Z’s ‘rizz’ is going to positively impact their workplace in aspects such as mentoring or reverse mentoring, as they move up the ladder, and the potential challenges that come with it. Organisations and professionals should prioritise taking advantage of housing multiple generations within the same workplace through the exchange of knowledge sharing and ideas.
A pivotal year for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
2023 saw some companies making cuts to their DE&I teams. An organisation’s commitment to DE&I reflects its culture, with a diverse and inclusive environment usually ensuring that employees’ voices are heard, equal access to opportunities are provided, and that staff have the platform to make an impact. If you want to make sure your new employer is committed to its DE&I agenda, research ahead and ask relevant questions during your interview to ensure that you will be happy in your new environment.
Economic uncertainty to impact the world of work
Agility is vital for organisations during times of economic uncertainty, and businesses will often hire contractors over permanent employees for specific roles or projects, due to the greater flexibility they provide. In 2023 we’ve already seen growth in the recruitment of temporary and contract staff. This trend is set to continue across various industries in 2024, allowing organisations to become far more efficient and resilient to shocks, while also navigating economic uncertainty.
Dirk Hahn, CEO of Hays comments:
“As generative AI and skills shortages reshaped the world of work in 2023, organisations and professionals faced new challenges and opportunities. These trends are set to continue into 2024.
“In the coming year, both employers and employees will need to adapt and learn new skills to thrive in the changing landscape. The future of the world of work will depend on managing a diverse and flexible workforce that can leverage AI, embrace hybrid and remote working, and cater to the needs and expectations of Gen Z.
“To succeed in 2024, organisations must stay alert to the trends that will shape the world of work and adapt to the evolving landscape and opportunities.”
*Based on Hays data from Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, United Kingdom, and United States