Top 6 HR Trends for 2021
2020 has been a busy year for HR professionals. So much has changed in such a short period of time. 2021 is fast approaching, and here are a few anticipated trends for HR in 2021:
Workplace Shift
Remote work has zoomed into the fast lane and will continue forging ahead in 2021. A constant connection to the workplace will continue for many as homes, basements, closets, and other spaces transform into home offices. Video calls have taken over calendars and will continue to in 2021. Workplaces of the past are changed forever. 2021 will be about finding a middle ground for being “always on” and the best remote approach that works for everyone. Technology, planning, and people will all need to align to embrace the new normal.
Laser Focus on DEI Initiatives
While DEI has been an important initiative for many organizations over the past few years, this year brought an increased need for change in the workplace. 2021 could be the biggest year for DEI. Hiring, retention, pay parity, and learning and development opportunities for diverse candidates is more important than ever. It’s time to approach the workplace with eyes wide open and look hard at what will impact the most change and do the most good.
Increased Wellness Initiatives
Now more than ever, companies are in tune with employee wellbeing and being empathetic to their needs. In March 2020, the world changed, and many were expected to shift on a dime – mentally, physically, and emotionally; the workforce was drained. Workers became instant teachers, companions, and were trapped in their own domains, forced to adapt. In 2021, expect companies to look harder at employee benefits and overall plan design to include enhanced offerings for both physical and mental wellness. Making wellness a top priority for culture will be a much-needed add-on for many organizations. I believe we will see some creative and innovative ways to enhance the employee experience by looking at them more as a whole and digging down deeper than we ever have as HR professionals.
Encouraging Learning on the Go
Allowing more people to learn as they work may be a highlight of 2021. Encouraging employees to learn a new skill or role within their organization may prove beneficial in overall job satisfaction, which may lead to greater retention. Encouraging people to tap into resources such as online training tools and professional organizations may see an uptick in membership and involvement. Gone are the days where expertise is needed in many traditional roles – embrace uncertainty and leverage tools to increase employee productivity and engagement. This may also trickle down into more job-sharing trends.
Embracing Constant Change
Data tells a story that will be listened to much more in 2021. Decision making in terms of remote work, recruiting, hiring, and culture will lean on data and stats on the habits of the workforce. Utilizing the numbers will play a bigger part in an organization’s decision-making when it comes to all things work.
Empathy Is the Driver of All Things Culture
Organizations that are empathetic to the needs of their workforce and constituents will by far have greater success than those who are not. In this changed world, many are dealing with uncertainty on a regular basis – whether it’s health, job security, childcare, social issues, or the unease of the recent election, the message is the same for 2021 – treat people well and treat them fairly. Do the right thing. Do what you say. Hold your leadership accountable. Be human. Be transparent. Empathy drives trust and that makes a difference.
The ETHIX360 blog brings you weekly updates on all things human resources and compliance.
MEET THE AUTHOR
Kristin Hassan is the Chief Human Resources Officer of ETHIX360. Kristin spent six years as the New York City SHRM’s executive director and is a board member of the Human Resources Management Association - Princeton SHRM Chapter and a member of the Peer 150 HR Group.
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