2022 represented the year that challenges within HR were considered core business problems. It’s critical to understand what the next wave of talent wants in a job, the importance of employee health and well-being on business performance and how people control their career progress and development. Understanding what is in store for 2023 and navigating through unknown times is often the priority for HR leaders. Damia Talent explores some of the critical focus areas for the coming year.
The connection between personal and business health has finally been recognised and is part of broader discussions. Companies face financial implications if they fail to address employees’ well-being and mental health.
According to McKinsey, if businesses make mental health services more accessible and introduce measures in the workplace that improve well-being, they will also make investments that enhance employee productivity and business performance.
The younger generation and emerging workforce are more willing to discuss their health and well-being and seek support. Getting help isn’t considered a weakness, it’s merely a sign that your employees are human. The pandemic highlighted the importance of our health and well-being and for many, triggered some anxiety and depression. Focusing on soft skills such as empathy and listening is critical to a business growth mindset. Leaders often feel they need to transform to tackle health and well-being, but the basics of leadership are still vital. Ensuring people have the opportunity to discuss their feelings and the chance to plan their careers and contribute all solidifying and strengthening mental health. Supporting and investing in your people will create a competitive advantage in attracting and retaining the best available talent.
Speed is a priority
The hiring process continues to be a challenge for candidates and businesses. With talent shortages predicted to continue for some time, candidates can find an alternative employer should they not be satisfied with their existing one. Making recruiters more streamlined and efficient is critical here, yet many are inundated with tedious tasks when they could be adding value in other areas. Technology today can manage many administrative tasks, enabling recruiters to focus on their candidates.
Implementing time-saving technology, like AI-powered tools, can facilitate meetings between candidates and the hiring team. New automation tools are available to enhance and speed up the hiring process, enabling recruiters to focus on the critical aspects of the business. Businesses must think carefully about what areas are costing them time and talent. Are you losing out on the best talent because refining and setting up initial calls are taking too long? This year should be a time to reconsider how technology can enhance your business.
Acquiring talent is just one aspect
Businesses must look beyond talent and recognise individual interests outside of their roles. A successful business will empower people while at work but continue to ensure they learn and expand their skill set. People no longer want to just go to work. They want to grow while they work.
One of the best things a business leader can do is create a clear, meaningful and inspiring route for career development. Businesses must show how people can fit in and join their long-term plans. Providing flexibility for talent to care for their family and enabling hybrid working environments allows people to be more productive. Our working style has changed, and employers must prepare to embrace the new concept of work and what will work best for their business and employees.
The race for new talent this year has already begun, so businesses must build their future by enhancing the talent process and delivering the best innovative talent experience.