2022 has been a turbulent year for workplaces. During this time, many companies have slowly evolved to support the hybrid work model. Remote and in-office employees, whether contingent or permanent, are working in tandem to meet long term company goals.

Following this transition, this is how we believe workplaces will function in 2023.

Unifying the split workforce 

2023 is the year when remote, in-office, and hybrid employees will be working together.  There needs to be clear planning to make work accessible and efficient, and companies must decide which roles can be carried out remotely and who needs to be present at office for the most productive outcome. Companies should also continue investing in online collaboration tools that facilitate communication among hybrid workforces.

As employees continue to function remotely, it is important that companies focus on recognizing this group for their work. Performance data analysis is one effective way to detect high performers and spotlight their efforts.

Moreover, working from home continues to pose significant cyber security risks, especially if employees connect their work devices to unsecured servers. Organizations need to look at ways to monitor company property without infringing on employee privacy.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives (DE&I) take the lead 

As more people join the workforce and younger employees climb the career ladder, companies who are behind on their DE&I efforts will be in trouble. This is the year when companies will refresh their HR strategies with the help of data to ensure that all teams meet DE&I initiatives.

Heading towards a four-day work week  

Most companies dont mind their employees working fewer hours as long as the work is done. Even otherwise, employers prefer 10-hour workdays to compensate for a 4 day work week. This way, employees save money on their commute and have more opportunity to attain a strong work-life balance. 

Employee well-being is the prime concern 

The Great Resignation has shown us that employees care more about their happiness and quality of life than a paycheck. To retain top talent, companies are extending their initiatives to improve employee well-being when it comes to physical health, mental health, and work-life balance.

Greater focus on upskilling 

The trend of hiring for potential means many employers are looking for soft skills over qualifications when searching for candidates. In order for these new hires to progress in their careers, they need to upskill. This is made easier with the help of online courses and flexible work schedules. Companies are also compensating for their talent shortage by upskilling existing employees.

AI enters the workforce 

AI technology continues to grow and is in use across industries. Its use in task automation can further free up worker time and help employees focus on responsibilities that need real human intervention.

Recruitment may become more employer centric 

For a long time, recruitment has been candidate driven. This situation might change for the time being due to the economic downturn.

More contract jobs 

Economic influences and trends like quiet quitting (putting the bare minimum into one's job) will lead employers to look more at contract workers. Independent contractors can often fill roles and complete tasks at a much lower expense than permanent employees.

Opening up new avenues

As a result of past challenges, our collective work life is moving towards a better future. Diversifying work culture and the nature of work itself might be an excellent way to satisfy both employees and employers while the workspace gets more productive.