I'm Ready for 2025: Here's Why

If I had to give a theme to 2023 it was the year of "New Beginnings and Dreams Come True". It was a great year. Work was challenging but great and I was learning a lot, growing into a new role. I got married, went on amazing honeymoon. Did a lot of traveling for speaking and meeting new people. All in all, it was a great year.

For 2024, the theme apparently was "ARE YOU A SURVIVOR". I was over the year in March. Why? So many people I know professionally and several very close to me personally lost their jobs as companies began several rounds of RIFs. As the economy continued to play double-dutch, I found myself trying to help those who were impacted while also having to help facilitate movements of my own. Just as it seemed like maybe, just maybe the market would pick up, something else dropped causing hysteria and hyperbole. To top it off, it was an election year. If you feel like taking a mental health break just reading through that, you're not alone.

Thankfully, it has flown and 2025 is right around the corner and I am excited. Here's why:

The Economy-Let's Get the $$$$ Together in 2025

We have the election behind us and at least now, the markets seem to feel more comfortable with making some moves with at least one variable out of the way. The Fed seems to think it's time to pull back the rates but at a slower pace. This will hopefully free up some of the money that has been tied up in anxiety since late 2023.

Gunshy from 2024, economist are still somewhat mixed on their view of 2025. Reading through the Department of Labor blogs and other publications, here are some highlights:

• Gross Domestic Product (GDP): The U.S. GDP is expected to grow at an annual rate of approximately 2.2% to 2.3% in 2025, driven by increased investment and job creation.?
• Unemployment Rate: The unemployment rate is expected to stabilize at around 4.5% by the end of 2025, indicating a relatively healthy labor market.?
• Monetary Policy: The Federal Reserve is likely to continue reducing interest rates, albeit at a slower pace, in response to labor market conditions and inflation trends.
• Trade Policies: Potential changes in trade policies, including tariffs, could impact various sectors differently, influencing both job creation and economic growth.

I have a search on LinkedIn jobs for key roles that usually indicate the economy's health, at least in my opinion they do. Key targets in the search are recruiting jobs, recruiting leadership roles, Vice President Roles, and analysts positions. Each of these categories were averaging roughly 4-9 new openings a week. Over the last three weeks, those number have increased north of 25 on average. My hope is these are real jobs and an indication that we may be turning the corner.

AI Will Continue to Push Transformation

The word of the year may have been demure but if you're in any role in business, the word or phrase you most likely heard was either "AI's Impact" or "AI Transformation".

AI has definitely changed the game, regardless of industry, role, level in the company, etc. Although AI is constantly accused of bias, I am not seeing any bias regarding its far reaching impacts on business and roles.

Personally, I have always been a fan of AI and spent a lot of my time this year exploring, speaking about, and testing out AI. I cannot imagine my daily routine without using it when only 18 months ago, I would not be able to say that. I use it conversationally more now than I did when I was tip toeing into the possibilities. I suspect 2025 will only bring more opportunities, new ways of using it and new tools for AI in HR.

If you want to see what I mean, here are some videos to get you going.

• Using Google's Gemini Gems in HR
• How I Use AI to do my HR Analytics
• 5 Hidden Benefits of Using ChatGPT for Candidate Evaluation

New Year-New Focus

While I will always have a special place for recruiting, I learned this year that my passion has expanded so I decided in 2025, I would focus on the evolution of HR to Human Capital. As part of this brand shift, I also decided to follow the advice of people in my network I value who have been after me to start a podcast. I have already begun posting some content in December as a teaser but let me tell you, the lineup of guests I have is insane and their insights are definitely going to make you rethink your Human Capital strategy in 2025.

The HR world is at a crossroads. For too long, we've been stuck in outdated models, clinging to "tried and true" methods that simply don't cut it in today's rapidly evolving business landscape. It's time for a revolution. It's time to unleash the true power of human capital.

This isn't your typical HR podcast filled with the same old tired advice. Here, we're diving deep into the future of work, exploring how AI, cutting-edge technology, and innovative strategies are transforming the role of HR.

Here's what you can expect:

• Exclusive insights: As a senior HR Executive at HatchWorks AI, I have a front-row seat to the incredible impact technology is having on the HR industry. I'll share those insights with you, giving you a competitive edge.
• Actionable strategies: We'll go beyond theory and delve into practical strategies you can implement immediately to optimize your workforce, boost employee engagement, and drive real business results.
• A rebellious spirit: This podcast is for HR professionals who are ready to challenge the status quo, embrace change, and become true strategic leaders within their organizations.

I hope to have you join as a listener on either YouTube or you can also search for Human Capitalist on Spotify!

Also, if you have ideas for guests or topics, please DM me!

Final Thoughts Closing the Year

I remain inspired by so many who are in my network. I have had the opportunity to meet so many of you at conferences this year and I sincerely hope 2025 brings even more opportunities for connection.

I hope you are able to disconnect over the next few weeks and spend time with those who are most important to you. They are the reason you work so hard for so make sure to invest the time in them during this special time.

As a way to wrap up the year, I hope you enjoy this look back video! Hug those who you love, take time to invest in rest, and I'll see you in 2025.