Hello 2023! Here we are at the beginning of a brand-new year and no doubt there is an abundance of planning and goal setting for the year ahead. As I write this article, whilst working remotely looking out to the beach, I reflect on how technology has progressed to allow me to work remotely, to have valuable extra time with family and friends and to have a little more balance in my own life.
It seems like only a few years ago there was no internet here, or mobile reception for that matter, and it made it difficult to be away from work for too long. Technology has certainly provided a lot of flexibility for me, my business, and my colleagues.
As we start the year, knowing it will be a difficult one economically, we have change within our current government with the news of Jacinda’s resignation, along with the upcoming election in October.
Political parties have much to prove and will campaign hard. The upcoming election can stimulate a unique environment providing yet another challenge for businesses to navigate. Typically, the closer we come to the election businesses tend to take a deep breath and hold … the economy and business confidence tends to slow.
The Bay of Plenty employment market has started the year positively with recruitment and employment stats over the region remaining positive. As always, the New Year brings movement in the workforce – either those who are relocating to the region and looking for work, or those who are currently employed and looking for a career move.
February is the time when we traditionally experience an influx of candidates which is extremely welcome and good for our local employers.
I urge employers to really consider hiring based on future anticipated demand rather than just present need. On average, it has been taking three months to hire, therefore my advice is, if you find someone good, hire them!
So as we plan for the year ahead keep in mind where is your business heading and how you can meet the needs of your market through your human resource functions, keeping the focus on what will add value to your team and the business.
Here are some of the current topics trending in Human Resources to help you put solid strategy in place for the year ahead:
- Remote work and flexible working arrangements: remote work and flexible schedules will continue to be high on the agenda.
- Diversity, equity and inclusion: focus on creating a more diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce.
- Employee engagement and retention: prioritise employee engagement and retention strategies to keep top talent.
- Mental health and well-being: as we learn more about the impact of these within the workforce, they will be a key focus for employers.
- Artificial intelligence and automation: streamline systems and processes.
- Emphasis on soft-skills: emotional intelligence, critical thinking and problem-solving will be in high demand.
- Talent management / development and training: focus on talent management strategies, including development and training programmes to identify and retain top performers.
- Data driven decision making: data analytics will become increasingly important for HR decision making.
- Compliance and regulations: stay up to date with changing laws and regulations related to HR such as equal pay, and health & safety.
Related: Happy New Year 2023!
