In the past few years, the world of work has undergone significant changes. Technology has been a driving force behind some of those changes and significant world events, such as the pandemic. Many of these changes have also been influenced by the new generation joining the workforce to meet the needs and expectations of a younger, more diverse workforce.

We’ve put together some of the top human resource trends we expect will be shaping the 2023 workplace. Some trends have been ongoing for a while now but will be even more prominent in the year to come. HR professionals are on the front line here, so what should they be focussing on as we approach the new year? Here’s what you should know.

1. Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace has always been an HR buzzword, and though there have been steps forward, there’s still a long way to go. Companies that don’t focus on DEI are missing out. According to Glassdoor, 3 out of 4 workers see workplace diversity as a key factor when considering a job offer. Research also shows that diverse organizations see 2.5x higher cash flow per employee and a 35% productivity increase in inclusive teams. 

2. Flexibility in the Workplace

The office-based nine-to-five has become outdated, especially after the covid-19 pandemic showed the world that remote, hybrid, and flexible working arrangements are not only possible but completely doable. Instead of fully remote employment, 83% of workers prefer a hybrid model. This has become a major consideration, with 54% of employees willing to leave their current role for one that offers greater flexibility in where they’re required to work.

Location isn’t the only thing that matters either. Working outside traditional office hours is also a draw for today’s workforce, with 43% of workers claiming flexible hours have increased their productivity. Moving into 2023, HR will need to focus heavily on flexible working initiatives to attract and retain top talent. It will also need to ensure all employees have the support and resources they need to thrive.

3. Artificial Intelligence (AI) 

60% of Global 2000 companies will use AI across the complete employee lifecycle by 2023, with technology such as ZenHR and ZenATS that streamline every stage from recruitment to retirement.  According to Gartner’s research, organizations are also planning to implement AI in the coming years in the following areas: workforce planning, learning and development, skills management, and performance management.

4. Wellness Programs

The concept of employee wellness no longer refers solely to physical health or workplace safety. It has evolved and now encompasses mental, social, financial, and career well-being, with employees seeking a better work-life balance, training and development opportunities, and retirement planning support. Employee wellness programs are a top priority for today’s job seekers. Six out of ten say they are highly influential when considering a new post. This is most prevalent among the younger generation, Gen Z, with 67% citing wellness programs as a key consideration.

5. Social Media Recruitment

86% of HR professionals say recruitment has become more like marketing; social platforms are now as much a place for acquiring talent as they are for acquiring customers. We’re not just talking about LinkedIn; the professional network ranks at the top, with 91% of recruiters using it. However, it’s followed by Twitter at 47%, Facebook at 39%, and Instagram at 11%. This practice reduces time to hire and has lowered the overall cost of the recruitment process for 30% of companies.

6. Mobile HR Applications

Last on the list of HR trends for 2023 is mobile HR applications. With more employees outside of the office environment, HR functions need to become transportable yet centralized now more than ever. These applications give both HR professionals and employees access to information while facilitating engagement and keeping all employee data secure. Payroll, expenses, leave requests, company documents, and much more can all be managed and accessed remotely. Such as ZenHR’s Employee Self-Service (ESS) mobile app empowers your employees to access the information they need anywhere, at any time.

Amanee Hasan

Amanee Hasan is a Senior Content Writer at ZenHR, an award-winning and top-rated HR solution that offers world-class HR software services in the MENA region. Her main focuses are SEO, UX writing, copywriting, and creating content highlighting the latest HR trends, and gives organizations and individuals the tools they need to create successful work environments where people thrive.