Work Trends In 2024

As we enter a new year, it is the perfect time to reflect on the year that is ending. For me, 2023 was a year of resilience, adaptability and knowledge development. It's been 1 year since I joined Serrala 's team, assuming new responsibilities, in a diverse environment, with numerous challenges, but with results that we can all be proud of. The local team in Romania has grown considerably, and not only in Bucharest, as we recently opened a secondary location in Iasi; we took protective measures for our colleagues in the context of legislative changes, we improved the benefits package and the workspace, and we met physically on numerous occasions.

Check out our year-in-review and if you want to join us, I invite you to our career page.

Are we ready for the upcoming year?

Since the pandemic, the landscape of work has gone through substantial changes, beginning with remote work, the emergence of gen Z, quiet-quitting or the great resignation, to the most recently great rebalancing.

The work trends are rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements, changing dynamics, and developing patterns. To stay ahead of the curve and faster adapt, it’s important to understand the key trends that will shape the future of work.

Will the hybrid work debate finally?end?

The fully hybrid workplace is a prominent work trend, but companies still struggle to find the right balance between remote and in-office work persists, with employers likely having a greater say in shaping this balance. The concept of hybrid work may evolve into a more flexible approach, with employers focusing on building in-person presence to maintain organizational culture.

The impact on offices is notable, as some companies, have downsized their office spaces due to increased remote work, some relocated, and more companies might recalibrate their office needs.

Could 2024 be the year the four-day week finally takes?off?

Numerous companies, including Amazon, Basecamp, Bolt, Ecosia, Panasonic, Samsung, and ThreadUP, are either implementing or piloting four-day workweeks. Microsoft Japan already reported productivity gains from this shift, highlighting a broader trend toward more flexible and efficient work practices.

Although reduced working time is desired by many employees, legislatively, many countries are not yet prepared. In various industries, scheduling difficulties may arise, can lead to increased stress and burnout and raises concerns about the impact on customer service.

AI a daily habit?

The impact of AI is increasingly evident in the workplace, and it is anticipated to significantly influence the labor market, career paths, and the nature of work. The expected growth in AI and machine learning specialist roles over the next five years, prompting both employees and employers to shape expectations and investments in this technology.

While many people became aware of the power of generative AI models, such as ChatGPT, in 2023, next year will see more businesses and employees integrate it into their daily workplace routines.

For instance, on LinkedIn, job postings mentioning ChatGPT have seen a 21-fold increase, with generative-AI keywords in member profiles rising by 75% on average each month since January 2023. (Source: LinkedIn, Future of Work Report, Aug. 2023)

Gen Z dominating the workforce?

In the upcoming year, Generation Z, often referred to as zoomers and comprising individuals born roughly between the mid-1990s and the early 2010s, is expected to surpass boomers in the workforce. This generation, having grown up in a digital era with the pervasive presence of technology and the internet, is notably more tech-savvy. They came of age during the widespread adoption of social media platforms and smartphones, contributing to their adeptness with digital tools. Gen Z exhibits an open-minded attitude toward utilizing AI tools and social media. Surveys indicate their willingness to take risks, and they tend to favor holding multiple jobs simultaneously. This tendency arises from a desire to reduce the risks linked to poverty, financial uncertainty, and the increasing expenses associated with inflation.

(For more see: "2023 Gen Z and Millennial Survey" by Deloitte)

In conclusion, the trends that influenced the work landscape in 2023 are expected to persist and influence our professional experiences in 2024.

The balance between favoring employees or employers is yet to be determined.

Thank you for accompanying me throughout this year! And for 2024, I hope you all have bold plans, interesting projects, meaningful connections, and as many achievements as possible. Happy Holidays and a fantastic New Year!

Best,

Madalina Pascu