1. Skill-based hiring is gaining traction, but the use of degrees still persists. Despite the recognition that degrees may not always accurately predict job performance, many companies still prioritize candidates with higher degrees. This could be due to biases and the belief that degrees indicate problem-solving and critical thinking skills. However, the need for specific technical skills is growing, and companies should focus on incorporating skill-based hiring practices and finding ways to assess candidates’ actual skills rather than relying solely on degrees.
2. The future of work requires a broader set of skills. The skills for the future, as identified by the World Economic Forum, highlight the importance of creative thinking, analytical thinking, motivation, and self-awareness. These skills go beyond technical capabilities and emphasize cognitive orientations and personal attributes. As technology continues to reshape the workplace, organizations need to focus on developing employees’ broader skill sets to boost agility and adaptability.
3. Aging workforce poses challenges and opportunities. With an aging population, companies need to address the potential loss of institutional knowledge as older employees retire or are laid off. Research shows that older workers can be just as productive, if not more, due to their experience and ability to navigate systems. To retain valuable talent, companies should consider flexible work arrangements, allowing older employees to continue contributing while also enjoying their personal pursuits.
4. AI is reshaping the workplace, requiring organizations to adapt. The integration of AI into various domains, such as internal operations, product development, and external interactions, presents both challenges and opportunities. Organizations need to explore how AI can transform or augment work processes, enhance products and services, and navigate the changing landscape. However, it is important to take a diagnostic approach, understanding the problems AI can solve and aligning AI strategies with business goals.
5. Return to office and hybrid work require careful consideration. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted traditional work arrangements, leading to debates about remote work, hybrid models, and the importance of in-person collaboration. It is crucial for HR practitioners to measure employee sentiment, goal achievement, and turnover to assess the effectiveness of their return-to-office or hybrid work policies. Organizations should focus on creating a culture that supports meaningful connections and purposeful interactions, while also accommodating the diverse needs and preferences of employees.
6. Executive support for unified talent strategies is crucial. To align executives around a unified talent strategy, HR practitioners should anchor their strategies to the business objectives. By understanding the organization’s goals and challenges, HR can design talent strategies that address skill gaps, upskilling, talent acquisition, and building internal capabilities. Prioritization based on business needs and effective communication of the talent strategy’s alignment with the business strategy are key to gaining executive support.
7. DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) is a critical topic but requires dedicated focus. While the topic of DEI is important and intersects with various HR trends, it warrants its own dedicated discussion due to its complexity and importance. Given the limited time available, it is advisable to have a separate session to delve into DEI in greater detail and address the challenges and strategies associated with creating inclusive and equitable workplaces.

Overall, organizations should prioritize skill-based hiring while recognizing the value of degrees in certain contexts. They should focus on developing a broader set of skills for the future, adapt to the integration of AI, and establish effective strategies for return-to-office or hybrid work models. Executive support is essential for aligning talent strategies with business objectives, and separate discussions on Dei should be conducted to address its unique challenges and importance.