Despite the growing fear of technology replacing most of the current jobs, humans will continue to be the catalyst to the future, according to leading workforce solutions firm ManpowerGroup’s new trends report released at the recent World Economic Forum. Although technology may be a great enabler, human capital is a major differentiator and driver of economic growth, it said. In fact, the race for talent will be driven by the shifting generational needs and growing demands for greater choice.
The report, which features input from 13,000 decision-makers and 8,000 workers from across eight countries and regions, identifies 14 key trends shaping the future of work and impacting today’s employers and the people they employ. These include shifting demographics, individual choice, tech adoption, and competitive drivers.
“Over the last few years, we’ve all heard many narratives about robots taking our jobs. What we believed then, and what has come to pass, is that tech can augment human skills rather than replace them. We are now embarking on a New Human Age — a time where people are utilizing technology and digital tools to enhance human connections, be more productive, and live more meaningful lives,” said ManpowerGroup Chairman and CEO Jonas Prising in the report.
Few take aways from the study include:
Purpose and balance matter: By 2025, Gen Z will make up 27% of the workforce and 88% of Gen Z workers say the pandemic has affected what they want from their job vs. 65% of workers of age 55+.
Upskill workers or they will upskill themselves: 57% of employees are already pursuing training outside of work, because company training programs don’t teach them relevant skills, don’t advance their career development, or don’t help them stay competitive in the marketplace.
Women are more motivated than men about getting back to the office: 41% of women cite sociability / connection, clear segmentation between work / home, more efficient collaboration, ease of getting work done, and having a place to focus as factors leading their drive to return.
Humans are seeking more humanity in a post-pandemic workplace: It’s not just about getting the job done. People say the ability to collaborate (83%), solve problems (82%), and be trustworthy (82%) are more important to do their job well than simply being a high producer (76%).
People are voting with their feet: 64% of the workforce would consider looking for a new job if they were required to return to the office full-time and 1 in 3 would take another role in the next month if it offered a better blend of work and lifestyle.
Both employers and workers believe in-person brainstorming is inherently better: More than 80% of workers and employers believe in-person collaboration generates the most creative ideas and drives camaraderie within the workplace.
