HR Report

Gartner Report Unveils 2024's Top 5 HR Priorities

Unveil 2024's top HR priorities: Transforming leadership, reshaping culture, advancing HR tech, mastering change, and innovating career paths.

November 1, 2023
Nitesh Padghan

As we step into 2024, the corporate world is not just evolving; it's transforming at a pace like never before. For HR leaders, this means navigating through a maze of new challenges and opportunities. 

Based on Gartner's extensive survey of over 500 HR leaders across diverse industries and countries, we've pinpointed the top five priorities for HR in 2024. These aren't just trends; they're the signposts guiding HR professionals through a landscape that's changing under our feet. 

From redefining leadership roles to embracing cutting-edge HR technology, these priorities are reshaping the way we think about work, culture, and employee engagement. Let's dive into each of these priorities, understanding their nuances and the strategies to address them effectively.

A New Era of Leadership

In the realm of HR, the development of leaders and managers is paramount. Gartner's survey reveals a startling 73% of HR leaders believe their leaders and managers aren't equipped for change. This is a big deal. Why? Because change is the only constant in today's business world. The solution isn't more training; it's about rethinking the role itself.

First, let's talk about resetting expectations. It's about empowering managers to focus on what they do best – leading and developing their teams. This means less time on admin and more on people. 

Next, we need to rewire habits. Good management isn't just about skills; it's about daily habits that build a strong team culture. Finally, rebuilding the manager pipeline is crucial. This means giving potential managers a real taste of the role, letting them decide if it's right for them. It's about making the role fit the person, not the other way around.

Building Connected Cultures Remotely

Organizational culture is next on the list. It's about how people feel at work. Do they feel connected? Do they believe in what they're doing? In a hybrid world, this is tougher than ever. Gartner points out that 47% of HR leaders are struggling with this in the new work environment.

The key here is intentionality. Culture doesn't just happen; it's built. It's about aligning everyone with the company's vision and values. Then, there's connectedness. In a world where remote work is common, creating a sense of belonging is crucial. 

This means more than just virtual happy hours. It's about meaningful interactions that build a community. Lastly, microcultures in teams can make a big difference. Each team has its own vibe, and nurturing this can strengthen the overall culture.

The HR Tech Transformation

HR technology is a big talking point. With 56% of HR leaders saying their current tech doesn't meet their needs, it's clear there's a gap. The future is about AI and advanced tech, but only 22% of HR leaders are actively engaged in this conversation. That's a problem.

First, understanding the tech landscape is crucial. What's out there? What fits our needs? Then, it's about readiness. Is our workforce ready for this tech? Do they have the skills to use it effectively? 

Lastly, ethics and risks can't be ignored. With any new tech, especially AI, understanding the ethical implications is key. We need to ask the tough questions before diving in.

Leading Through Transition

Change management is all about helping people adapt. But here's the thing: 82% of HR leaders say their managers aren't equipped for this. Employees are feeling the strain, with many reporting lower trust and engagement levels.

The solution? It's a threefold approach. First, communicate. People need to understand what's changing and why. Second, quality training is non-negotiable. People need the right tools to adapt. Finally, managing fatigue is crucial. Change is exhausting, and acknowledging this is the first step to helping employees cope.

Redefining Growth in the Workplace

Lastly, we have career management and internal mobility. The stats are worrying – 66% of HR leaders think their company's career paths aren't compelling. This is about giving employees a roadmap for their future in the company.

First, it's about moving away from rigid career paths. The future is fluid, and career paths should be too. Next, it's about aligning roles with experiences, not just job titles. 

This means thinking about what skills and experiences employees gain in each role. Finally, it's about support. Employees need guidance and tools to navigate their career journey within the company.

Final Thoughts

In wrapping up, it's clear that the HR landscape in 2024 is about much more than policies and payroll. It's about leading through change, building cultures that thrive in hybrid environments, leveraging technology smartly, managing change compassionately, and carving out dynamic career paths for employees. 

By addressing these priorities, HR leaders can not only navigate the complexities of the modern workplace but also shape it into an environment where both the organization and its people can flourish. The future of work is here, and it's time for HR to lead the charge, turning challenges into opportunities for growth, innovation, and lasting success.

Wellbeing

Burnout at Work: 3 Sneaky Signs and What to Do About Them

March 4, 2024
Nitesh Padghan

Burnout is a growing epidemic in the modern workplace. Characterized by chronic exhaustion, cynicism, and feelings of inadequacy, it can be insidious, creeping up on even the most dedicated employees.  While extreme burnout cases are easy to spot,  subtler signs can get lost in the shuffle of daily work demands. Recognizing these early warning signs is crucial for both employees and leaders to prevent full-fledged burnout and its harmful consequences.

1. The Energy Drain: Beyond Simple Tiredness

Everyone experiences tiredness at the end of a long work week.  Burnout exhaustion, however, is a different beast. Here's the distinction:

  • Persistent Fatigue: You feel drained even after a good night's sleep and find it difficult to muster the energy for everyday tasks.
  • Emotional Exhaustion: You feel emotionally depleted, making it challenging to manage work interactions with patience and empathy.
  • Physical Manifestations: Body aches, headaches, changes in appetite, or increased susceptibility to illness can be tied to burnout-induced stress.

What to Do:

  • Prioritize Rest: Quality sleep and restorative activities are essential. Aim for consistent sleep hygiene and dedicate time to hobbies or relaxation techniques.
  • Set Boundaries: Learn to say "no" to additional tasks when your plate is full. Create clear distinctions between work and personal life, including logging off when your shift ends.
  • Seek Support: Talk to a trusted colleague, friend, mental health professional, or your HR department for resources and strategies to combat exhaustion.

2.  The Fog of Mental Disengagement

Burnout isn't just about feeling overwhelmed; it's about a loss of connection to your work. Watch out for these red flags:

  • Loss of Focus: Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, and increased procrastination hint at a mind struggling to keep up.
  • Apathy and Cynicism: What once sparked interest feels mundane, and a negative or sarcastic attitude becomes your default.
  • Lack of Motivation: Initiating tasks feels like a monumental challenge and you have little drive to excel.

What to Do:

  • Break Down Tasks: Large projects can feel overwhelming. Break them into smaller, manageable steps to create a sense of control.
  • Rediscover Purpose: Remind yourself why your work matters. Connect your tasks to the bigger picture and how they contribute to the company's goals.
  • Celebrate Small Wins: Recognizing even minor accomplishments helps combat feelings of inadequacy and reignites motivation.

3. The Undercurrent of Irritability and Isolation

Burnout doesn't just affect your internal state – it seeps into your interactions with others. Pay attention to these behavioral shifts:

  • Decreased Patience: You find yourself easily frustrated with colleagues, clients, or seemingly minor inconveniences.
  • Withdrawal and Isolation: You actively avoid social interactions at work or feel disconnected from your team.
  • Heightened Sensitivity to Criticism: Even small constructive feedback can feel harsh and trigger a defensive response.

What to Do:

  • Practice Self-Compassion: Recognize you're going through a tough time. Avoid self-blame and practice positive self-talk.
  • Mindful Communication: If you find yourself snapping, take a pause. Breathe deeply and choose your words carefully to avoid hurtful outbursts.
  • Reconnect with Colleagues: Reach out to a trusted coworker for a casual chat or schedule a team lunch to nurture social bonds.

The Leader's Role in Preventing Burnout

While individuals have a responsibility to manage their own well-being, leaders have a profound influence on creating a work environment that either fuels burnout or fosters resilience.  Beyond simply addressing existing burnout cases, proactive leaders prioritize prevention through these key actions:

Open Communication

Destigmatize conversations about stress, burnout, and mental health. Leaders should be approachable and encourage employees to share their struggles without fear of judgment.  Regular check-ins, surveys, and open forums create channels for employees to voice concerns before they reach a breaking point.

Manageable Workloads and Realistic Expectations

Continuously evaluate team workloads and advocate for realistic deadlines. Encourage employees to speak up if they feel overwhelmed, redistributing tasks or securing additional support when needed.

Flexibility and Autonomy

Where feasible, providing flexibility in work schedules and decision-making empowers employees with a sense of control, which can counteract feelings of helplessness that contribute to burnout.

Recognition and Rewards

A simple "thank you" goes a long way.  Regular recognition of achievements, both individually and as a team, cultivates a sense of appreciation and value.  Consider small rewards, bonuses, or additional time off as incentives and a way to celebrate milestones.

Employee Wellness Programs

Proactive wellness programs are a powerful tool in combating burnout. These programs can include webinars on stress management, mindfulness workshops, company-wide fitness challenges, access to mental health resources, and activities that build team cohesion.  By prioritizing holistic well-being, leaders show they care about employees beyond just job performance.

Investing in a culture of well-being isn't just the right thing to do; it's smart business.  Organizations that prioritize employee well-being see reduced absenteeism, increased productivity, higher job satisfaction, and improved ability to attract and retain top talent.

Burnout Doesn't Have to Be the Norm

By recognizing burnout's sneaky signs and actively addressing them, both individuals and organizations can create more sustainable and fulfilling work environments.  If you're struggling with burnout, remember you're not alone.  Reach out for support, set boundaries, prioritize self-care, and don't hesitate to make changes for a healthier and happier work life.

Corporate Wellness

Establishing Employee Trust - 5 Ways to Improve Reliability at Work

October 12, 2022
The Wellness Tribe

With the fear of an impending recession, hiring freezes, and mass layoffs, many team leaders are experiencing great stress and uncertainty at work right now. Employees want to know whether their job is secure, what they should be doing, and what the future holds.

In times like this, it may be incredibly difficult for managers to build trust in their teams. What information should one provide, and how much of it should one share? How can you be open about the company's problems without discouraging your employees? How can you establish trust in your team and improve reliability at work.

Here are some 5 simple tips for assisting your team through times of uncertainty:

Be Open and Honest

Establishing Employee Trust - 5 Ways to Improve Reliability at Work
Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash

While you must be careful with the information you offer, it is critical that you be as explicit and honest as possible. Be candid about the reality that no one, including you, can completely predict what lies ahead, but that you do know the company is doing all it can to provide a solid foundation for the future. 

Make it apparent that the corporation wants you to share what you know by using phrases like "I shouldn't be telling you this" or "don't discuss this with anybody, but..." In order to avoid instilling secrecy and suspicion, make an explicit effort to emphasize that the information you are delivering is coming straight from leadership.

Assume Responsibility

When an unfortunate event occurs, be sure to accept responsibility as their leader.

As a leader, you must accept responsibility for the welfare of your team, even if it is not your fault directly. As you take responsibility for your good and bad actions, your team will start to trust you.

"Leadership is not about being in charge. Leadership is about taking care of those in your charge." - Simon Sinek

Be Confident and Enthusiastic

Establishing Employee Trust - 5 Ways to Improve Reliability at Work
Photo by Austin Distel on Unsplash

Your actions and attitude as a manager may significantly impact your staff. Therefore, it is essential to demonstrate confidence in your leadership skills. While things are unpredictable and no one knows everything, you should emphasize what you do know and how you can best position the team to go ahead efficiently. 

Keep a positive attitude and acknowledge your team's efforts at all times. Language such as "we've got this" and "I'm so pleased with all the effort our team has made is an excellent method to foster togetherness and optimism.

Provide Emotional Support

During times of uncertainty, stress and burnout are understandable. Take the time to check in with your team members regularly. Begin your weekly meetings by asking how your staff are doing and if there is anything you can do to help. 

Pay close attention to what they are saying and asking so you can follow up later. As a manager, it is critical to consider your employees' viewpoints and to evaluate what you would like to hear if you were in their shoes. If you feel your team members are not comfortable sharing their problems invest in some corporate wellness program so they can take help from 

Invest in Your Employees.

Workplaces that foster high levels of trust promote holistic development and employee wellbeing. Talent is developed within the organization through a development attitude, which stresses both professional and personal growth opportunities for managers and direct reports. 

Organizations that invest in their employees are more likely to retain talent and improve engagement. This includes employee wellness initiatives, financial well-being programs, and fun wellness activities. 

Closing Thoughts

Teams flourish when members trust each other to deliver and match their contributions with quality and excitement. When there is trust at work, everyone always relies on one another to provide consistent efforts and solid outcomes.

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This month we are focusing on food and how it affects your mental health. Join us as we bring in the most relevant interesting content from across the wellness segment.

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