Keeping up with the latest human resources and workplace trends can be daunting. As an ever-changing industry, it seems like every day there’s a new article or study proclaiming the “end of work as we know it.”
In 2022, there are a number of HR and workplace trends to be aware of. Consequently, this has created an added demand for HR professionals.
This article showcases the most important HR trends to keep an eye on, as well as the ways you can get a career in HR.
The Rise of AI in HR
Artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to change the way HR professionals do their jobs. In fact, a recent IBM study found that one-third of HR leaders believe AI will have a “great” or “very great” impact on their roles in the next three years.
So what does this mean for those already in HR or those pursuing HR as a career?
To stay ahead of the curve, you need to start familiarising yourself with common HR terms like “machine learning,” “predictive analytics,” and “chatbots.” These technologies are already being used by leading companies to automate repetitive tasks, identify top talent, and improve employee engagement. And they’re only going to become more commonplace in the years to come.
The Gig Economy Goes Mainstream
The gig economy — a labor market characterised by short-term contracts or freelance work instead of full-time jobs — is no longer just for Uber drivers and Airbnb hosts. A growing number of employers are turning to gig workers to fill skills gaps and get work done more efficiently. In fact, a recent study by Intuit estimates that in 2022, more than 40% of the American workforce are independent contractors.
If you’re in HR and your company is not already using gig workers, now is the time to start considering it. Just be sure to do your homework first.
There are a lot of factors to consider when onboarding gig workers, from how they’ll fit into your company culture to what type of insurance you’ll need to cover them.
The Rise of the Employee Experience
In recent years, there’s been a shift in HR away from traditional practices like recruiting and benefits administration towards a focus on enhancing the employee experience. This trend has been driven by changes in the workforce — namely, the rise of millennials and Gen Zers who place a higher premium on job satisfaction and work/life balance than previous generations.
To stay ahead of the curve, those in HR need to start thinking about ways they can improve their employees’ day-to-day lives. That might mean investing in office perks like free lunches and gym memberships or offering more flexible work arrangements like remote working and unlimited vacation days.
No matter what steps you take, remember that the goal is to create an environment where your employees can thrive both personally and professionally.
How To Get a Career in HR: Get Qualified in HR
While you don’t need a degree to work in HR, it will give you a leg up on the competition. There are many HR courses and online programs that offer degrees and certifications in human resources. If you want a career, it’s advised that you do your research to find the right program for you and your career goals.
How To Get a Career in HR: Start Working in Customer Service or Sales
Believe it or not, customer service and sales are great training grounds for an HR career. Why? Because both customer service and sales require excellent people skills. If you can learn how to effectively communicate with customers and resolve problems, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career in HR.
Summary
The world of work is constantly changing — and that means HR professionals need to continuously adapt if they want to stay ahead of the curve.
By staying up-to-date on the latest trends, you can ensure that your company is prepared for whatever changes come your way. From AI technologies that are automating repetitive tasks to the rise of the gig economy, there are plenty of opportunities for HR innovation in 2022. So, start brainstorming ways you can enhance your employee experience and make your company more attractive to top talent.
With such an emphasis on HR innovation, a career in Human Resources has never been more rewarding — both professionally and personally.
If you’re interested in pursuing an HR career, there are a few things you can do to get started, including getting a degree or certification in human resources, starting out in customer service or sales, or volunteering for HR-related roles within your organisation.
Pursue your passion today and see where a career in human resources takes you tomorrow!
