The future of tech skills, flexibility, and inclusive hiring in 2024

The modern workplace is constantly evolving, and in 2024, significant changes will challenge traditional practices and reshape how organizations approach talent acquisition and management. In response to the ever-evolving HR and recruiting landscape, three prominent trends underscore what is needed to remain successful in 2024 and beyond: highly intuitive tech, well-defined flexibility policies, and genuinely inclusive hiring practices. 

Intuitive tech conquers tech skills 

HR leaders want intuitive technology that their employees can learn and use seamlessly. This may seem obvious, but it is a fundamental shift considering HR’s intense focus on bridging tech skills gaps in recent years. Amid a turbulent global climate and ever-evolving workplace, organizations learned that their people only have so much bandwidth, making it difficult for employees to learn and retain information during times of stress. As a result, companies now prioritize solutions that their current workforce can learn quickly.

Achievers Workforce Institute (AWI) data indicates that many employees are happy with HR’s evolved opinion on tech skills. Specifically, AWI’s recent Belonging Blueprint reveals that tools and technologies improve belonging in the workplace. For example, employees are 33% more likely to feel a sense of belonging when provided with an always-on listening tool, such as an AI chatbot. However, it’s critical that organizations are strategic with their technology investments, or else they may see tech impacting belonging for the worse. Employees are more willing to adopt technology that simplifies their workloads and therefore, organizations must only introduce technology that adds value from their employees’ perspectives. Then, when introducing a new technology, business leaders must clearly communicate that the tech will not replace them but rather create a more efficient, connected, and engaging workplace for employees. 

Flexibility’s definition becomes less flexible  

While workplace flexibility was once synonymous with remote work and flexible hours, organizations are challenging how we approach flexibility. The new definition of flexibility encompasses remote work and emphasizes a balanced approach that combines in-person collaboration with the autonomy to choose when and where to work. This is a good thing, employees need clarity, and after years of wondering whether we go back to the office or not, organizations are finally pulling together a sustainable and clear definition of flexibility. Some organizations adopt a hybrid work culture that encourages physical presence for specific collaborative tasks while offering remote options for individual-focused or deep work activities. 

To ensure productivity, maintain a cohesive company culture, and encourage collaboration, organizations are investing in technology that facilitates seamless hybrid work experiences. Platforms integrating virtual collaboration tools, project management systems, and communication channels are becoming indispensable, bridging the gap between remote and in-office work. 

Inclusive hiring conversations evolve  

Boomerang employees, or employees who return to a former employer after exploring other career options, will gain traction in 2024 recruitment strategies. Companies are recognizing the value that these returning employees bring. For example, boomerang workers are already familiar with their former company’s culture and best practices, which can help reduce onboarding time. Yet, they still provide fresh perspectives gleaned from experiences elsewhere. Hence, organizations are now leaving pride at the door by actively fostering relationships with past employees and creating an environment conducive to their return. 

Related: Finding the right tech-enabled solutions for employee benefits

Moreover, boomerangs are just one demographic employers will incorporate into their 2024 hiring strategies. Age-agnostic hiring practices are also gaining prominence as companies focus on skills, experience, and cultural fit rather than age. In today’s modern workplace, a lot of older employees feel unwelcome, undervalued, and unappreciated. Yet, they should receive praise for their commitment to building fruitful careers. Older demographics intend to keep working for extended periods, but company policies and employee retention programs overlook them or even push them out. Forward-thinking HR leaders realize this and will emphasize building diverse teams that include individuals from various age groups, each contributing unique perspectives and skills. This approach ensures a prosperous, inclusive work environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, and belonging. 

The future-ready organization  

2024 marks a pivotal moment for HR and recruitment, steering towards intuitive tech adoption, a redefined approach to flexibility, and embracing the value of boomerangs and age-agnostic hiring. Organizations that adapt to these evolving trends will thrive by attracting top talent and fostering a dynamic, inclusive, and future-ready workforce. 

Hannah Yardley, Chief People and Culture Officer at Achievers