?? HR Trends of 2024: Insights for Deskless Workers ??

As the chapter of 2023 is slowly but surely coming to an end, the anticipation for the HR landscape of 2024 is palpable. In a recent Forbes article penned by HR tech expert Meghan M. Biro, the direction of the coming year is revealed through the top 5 emerging HR trends according to her. In this week’s newsletter, we will embark on a journey to dissect these trends, exploring them and revealing implications for the often overlooked deskless workforce.

1. GenAI: Pioneering Intelligent HR Functions ??

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) such as ChatGPT unsurprisingly, is set to be a game-changer in the HR world. Imagine streamlined onboarding, automated checklists, and an overall smoother work life. Making everyday HR tasks easier. GenAI is like the fairy godmother of work, making things happen with a wave of its digital wand. It's like upgrading from a flip phone to a smartphone – intelligent, adaptable, and making work life a breeze.

This technological powerhouse is revolutionizing how we treat employees, including deskless workers, envisioning them not just as workers but as consumers. It represents a revolutionary advancement in talent acquisition and management responsibilities by enhancing, optimizing, and simplifying numerous processes. This innovative solution offers intelligent support, minimizing obstacles and enhancing the overall employee experience when seeking answers and information. It plays a crucial role in enabling more informed decision-making across various areas, including hiring, engagement, and service delivery, which inevitably strongly impact deskless workers. Knowing that they represent 80% of the workforce and are often neglected, this is impacting positive news.

2. Compensation: The Wild West of Fairness ??

Compensation in 2024 is shedding its traditional skin, transforming into a dynamic landscape driven by flexibility, equity, and transparency. The surge in “quiet quitting” has forced employers to reassess how they reward their workforce, beyond just the paycheck. With an increasing focus on when and how employees are paid, coupled with unique perks like gas vouchers, compensation is evolving to address the specific needs of individuals.

For deskless workers, often navigating a unique work landscape, this shift is music to their ears. Fair and timely compensation seems to finally be on the way, especially knowing that deskless jobs often offer lower wages. Transparency and equity in compensation become the key to acknowledging the individual contributions of deskless champions. Furthermore, with the newer generation entering the workforce and being more comfortable standing up for themselves and rejecting capitalism, this effect will be enhanced.

3. Employer/Employee Relationships: Navigating the Work Maze ??

The evolving nature of work in 2024 has amplified the friction points in employer/employee relationships. Smart employers are recognizing the need to not only navigate these frictions but also understand their profound impact on engagement, performance, and retention. It has been revealed that only a quarter of the workforce fully complies with on-site attendance requirements and nearly half perceive their current performance as unsustainable.

Bridging the gap becomes essential for deskless employees, ensuring that remote and on-site workers feel connected and valued. It's not just about smoothing out the friction but creating a work environment where every deskless hero thrives and everyone has the opportunity to communicate. This is also something that will be enhanced by the newer generation, as they value two-way communication. Employee communication apps such as Oneteam will become the key to bridging the gap between HQ and frontline employees.

4. HR Tech Platforms: Intelligent Tools for All ??

The evolution of HR technology continues its upward trajectory, with platforms like HCM taking center stage. These platforms, equipped with sophisticated capabilities, are no longer exclusive to large enterprises. Their purpose goes beyond a mere “build it, and customers will come” mentality, aiming to accelerate growth, enhance talent management, and provide consistent user experiences. The advent of AI and ML further amplifies their impact.

This tech revolution is a breath of fresh air when it comes to deskless heroes. As mentioned earlier, new technologies are a game-changer. HR platforms like Oneteam for example are meant to be allies. These platforms will continue to ensure that deskless workers aren't left behind.

5. Skills Plus Learning And Development: Nurturing Talent Growth ??

In 2024, the focus on skills and learning takes center stage. The digital transformation and the pandemic's impact have shattered traditional views on core competencies. Now, specific skills are in demand, especially as technology becomes more sophisticated. Learning and Development (L&D) programs are recognized as vital tools for upskilling, driving employee performance, and keeping the workforce engaged.

For deskless champions seeking career growth, this trend is a beacon of opportunity. In a previous newsletter, we unraveled that growth opportunities are one of the most important desires for deskless workers. That cannot happen without proper L&D programs in place. A good way to respond to this demand is through your employee platform. Have a dedicated space for learning, just like we offer with our “Academy”, which is where employees can follow tailored made learning modules.

As we delve into the HR trends of 2024, each theme holds a promise of transformation for the workforce. For deskless heroes, it's not just about embracing these changes, but ensuring they become integral parts of a work culture that values transparency, communication, relationships, and data-driven decision-making. Meghan M. Biro's insights paint a roadmap, urging organizations not to pivot after every shift, but to adhere to these timeless best practices.