The workplace of the future
WHILE it is unknown what the workforce and workplace will look like half a century from now, there are trends that are likely to be adopted and grow in popularity next year.
This is according to Kay Vittee, CEO of Kelly and Quest, who notes the increasing uptake of these trends enable businesses and the recruitment industry to develop and implement new strategies to remain competitive and attract and retain top talent.
The recently released Kelly and Quest report, based on Recruitment and Workforce Trends in 2016, highlights that current recruitment and workforce trends have the biggest impact on the most valuable resource of any business, its employees.
Flexibility, collaboration, diversity and employee wellbeing have consistently come through in our research and experience as major factors responsible for attracting and retaining top employees.
This is largely due to younger generations entering the workforce and the increase in always-on connectivity. Generation Z, for instance, are looking for an employer brand and culture they perceive to be innovative and which offers them opportunities for growth.
In 2016, more organisations are likely to pay greater attention to their employees wellbeing and make their workplaces progressive blurring the lines between home and work.”
The progressive workplace resembles an enhanced community and includes the benefits of access to both work and personal life related services and spaces.
Progressive workplaces often include gyms, coffee shops, lounges and even health and beauty spas for employee use.”
The number of millennials or Generation Ys in leadership roles is also on the rise, according to the report.
In a recent study, global accounting firm Ernst & Young found that 62% of millennial full-time employees filled positions in which they manage the work of others.
Another consideration, according to Vittee, is the widening skills gap, a concern in South Africa, which has resulted from a mismatch of graduate skills and market demands.
Businesses should be aware of the changing environment and adapt their workforce planning and development strategies to ensure alignment with future skill requirements.”
Another trend addressed in the report is that of technology. From digitalised hiring models utilised for long-distance first interviews, to the increasing use of big data and automating the recruitment process, Vittee notes that technology continues to evolve the workplace and specialised industries.
Social media is a big player in this regard. We can expect to see an increase in social media recruitment strategies by businesses and a further uptake of this platform by job-seekers.”