In the article “10 Workplace Trends You’ll See In 2016”, Dan Schawbel explained the ten trends that are expected to occur in 2016 based on hundreds of conversations with human resource executives and workers, a series of national and global online surveys and secondary research from more than 100 different sources. Although every trend comes with its own sets of challenges, it is a great opportunity for companies to modernize, automate, and lead in 2016. Here are some of the trends that he listed to happen in 2016:
The leadership gap is filled by Millennials
Studies showed that more than 3.6 million baby boomers are set to retire, and more than one-fourth of millennial workers will be the new managers. With the increase of millennial workers, new leadership and development programs were heavily focused on catering to the needs of the new workforce. Based on a global study conducted by Forbes, millennials needed regular feedback instead of performance reviews and virtual learning instead of printed manuals. In addition, millennials preferred a transformational leadership style, opposed to an autocratic leadership style preferred by the baby boomers. Millennials aren’t as money driven as other generations; instead, they value empowering others to succeed and forcing organizations to make an impact on society.
The acceptance of Boomerang employees
What is a boomerang employee you might ask? A boomerang employee is someone that leaves and later returns to the company. Most boomerang employees exit based on compensation, family affairs, or opportunity. One study demonstrated that 48% of companies had a policy implemented against hiring boomerang employees in the past; however, 76% of businesses stated that they were more accepting towards hiring them back. This trend was based on the fact that professionals were switching jobs more often, and access to talent through technology is greater than ever before. Social media networks such as LinkedIn and Facebook made it easier for employees to remain connected. Rehiring a former worker has its perks. Less training is required, they are familiar with the company’s culture, and they typically return with a new perspective.
The automation of jobs and modernizing in the workplace
Many jobs were or are going to be affected by automation in 2016. It is predicted that machines might be able to do half of our jobs within the next two decades. Jobs such as receptionists to bank tellers to cashiers, to telemarketers, were affected by automation. For example, Mcdonald’s started to incorporate their self-serve kiosks in most of their restaurants through the United States. Although employers benefit by creating a more efficient production line and lowering the cost of talent, workers are more pressured to produce or to be replaced. The concept of automation is still in its early phase, but within the next couple of years, the adoption of automation will be huge.
Final Thoughts
Trends happen every year, regardless if the outcomes are good or bad. The trends that occurred in 2016 will improve performance and decision making for companies in 2017. The trends that happened this year shouldn’t be left behind and forgotten. Instead, companies should use this as an opportunity to identify how this can further their success. To read more on the workplace trends that happened in 2016, read “10 Workplace Trends You’ll See In 2016”.
Source:
http://www.forbes.com/sites/danschawbel/2015/11/01/10-workplace-trends-for-2016/3/#7eb6f97025e8