Key HR trends that are expected to shape the way HRM is practised

"I am convinced that nothing we do is more important than hiring and developing people. At the end of the day, you bet on people, not on strategies ?Lawrence Bossidy"-?Lawrence Bossidy

Human Resources Management (HRM) is constantly evolving, with new trends and developments emerging every year. In 2023, several key trends are expected to shape how HRM is practised and impact how companies and organizations approach their human capital. These trends include the increasing importance of employee engagement, the growing use of technology and data analytics, the increasing focus on diversity and inclusion, and the rise of flexible work arrangements.

Key HR trends that are expected to shape the way HRM includes;

1. The increased relevance of employee engagement
2. The expanding use of technology and Data Analytics
3. The increased emphasis on Diversity Equity and Inclusion
4. The rise of flexible work arrangements
5. ?Increasing Agility Training and Development?

• The increased relevance of employee engagement

"When people are financially invested, they want a return. When people are emotionally invested, they want to contribute" - Simon Sinek

One trend, that is expected to be particularly important in 2023 is the increasing importance of employee engagement. Employee engagement refers to the extent to which employees are motivated and committed to their work and the success of their organization. Research has consistently shown that engaged employees are more productive, have higher levels of job satisfaction, and are less likely to leave their jobs. As such, HR professionals are increasingly focusing on finding ways to engage their employees and keep them motivated.

One way that companies are trying to improve employee engagement is by offering more opportunities for personal and professional growth. This includes providing training and development opportunities, as well as offering flexible work arrangements, such as the ability to work remotely or to have flexible work hours. Additionally, companies are increasingly using employee engagement surveys and other tools to measure and understand employee satisfaction and then taking steps to address any issues that are identified.

• The expanding use of technology and Data Analytics

“If you cannot measure it, you cannot improve it.”?- Lord Kelvin

Another trend that is expected to shape HRM in 2023 is the growing use of technology and data analytics. HR professionals are increasingly using technology to automate various HR tasks, such as payroll, benefits administration, and performance evaluations. This not only saves time and resources but also allows HR professionals to focus on more strategic and value-added activities.

Data analytics is also playing an increasingly important role in HRM. Companies are using data analytics to better understand their workforce and to identify trends and patterns that can inform decision-making. This includes analyzing data on employee turnover, productivity, and engagement, as well as using data analytics to inform talent management and succession planning.

• The increased emphasis on Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI)

“A diverse mix of voices leads to better discussions, decisions, and outcomes for everyone.” - Sundar Pichai

Another key trend in HRM in 2023 is the increasing focus on diversity and inclusion. Companies are recognizing that a diverse workforce is not only the right thing to do, but it also has tangible business benefits. Research has shown that diverse teams are more innovative and creative, and are more likely to outperform homogeneous teams.

The trend towards promoting DEI in the workplace is likely to continue in the coming years. This may involve implementing training programs and initiatives to increase diversity and inclusion in the workforce, as well as implementing policies and practices that support equity for all employees.

As such, HR professionals are increasingly focusing on building diverse and inclusive workplaces. This includes implementing diversity and inclusion initiatives and programs, as well as creating more inclusive hiring practices. Additionally, HR professionals are working to create a culture of inclusion, where all employees feel valued and respected regardless of their background or identity.

• The rise of flexible work arrangements

“People today really value workplace flexibility and remote work because it allows them to focus their energies on work and life as opposed to commuting or other complications due to geography.” - Richard Branson

The rise of flexible work arrangements is another trend that is expected to shape HRM in 2023. Companies are increasingly recognizing the benefits of offering flexible work arrangements, such as the ability to work remotely or to have flexible work hours. This not only helps to improve employee engagement and retention, but it also allows companies to attract top talent who may not be able to commit to a traditional 9-5 work schedule.

HR professionals are playing a key role in implementing and managing flexible work arrangements, including developing policies and procedures, providing training and support to employees, and tracking the success of these initiatives.

• Increasing Agility in Training & Development

“Learning agility is the willingness and ability to learn, de-learn, and relearn. Limitations on learning are barriers invented by humans.”- Pearl Zhu, Digital Capability: Building Lego Like Capability Into Business Competency

In a rapidly changing business environment and with productivity challenges, organizations need to invest in their employees and ensure that they have the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. HR departments may need to develop and implement training programs and initiatives to help employees stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and technologies.

One potential need is the continued adoption of new technologies and the resulting need for employees to learn and adapt to these technologies. As technology continues to evolve, it is likely that organizations will need to provide training and development opportunities to help employees stay up-to-date on the latest tools and techniques.

Technology plays a significant role in employee training and development and can be used in a variety of ways to support the learning and development of employees. Some of the ways that technology can be used in employee training include:

?i. Online training: Technology can be used to deliver training materials and resources online, making it easier for employees to access and complete training at their own pace. This can include everything from video lectures and tutorials to interactive exercises and simulations.

ii.?Virtual instructor-led training: Technology can be used to facilitate virtual instructor-led training, allowing employees to participate in live training sessions with trainers located remotely. This can be a particularly useful option for organizations with employees working remotely or in different locations.

iii.?Mobile learning: Mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets can be used to deliver training materials and resources to employees on the go. This can be particularly useful for employees who are always on the move or who have limited access to a computer.

iv.?Learning management systems: Learning management systems (LMS) are software platforms that can be used to create, deliver, and track employee training programs. LMSs can be used to assign training materials, track progress, and provide feedback to employees.

v.?????Virtual reality and simulations: Virtual reality (VR) and simulations can be used to provide immersive learning experiences that allow employees to practice and apply new skills in a simulated environment. This can be particularly effective for training in complex or high-stakes situations.

Overall, the use of technology in employee training can help organizations to deliver effective and efficient training programs that meet the needs of their employees and support the success of their workforce.

Overall, HRM in 2023 is expected to be characterized by an increasing focus on employee engagement, the use of technology and data analytics, a focus on diversity and inclusion, and the rise of flexible work arrangements and the use of technology in learning and development. These trends will shape the way companies approach their human capital and will have a significant impact on the way HR professionals do their work.