In 2023, companies moved beyond the pandemic and considered the working models for their future. Some adopted a hybrid approach, others insisted on a complete return to the office, and a few permanently abandoned the office. Throughout these changes, workers approached their tasks in diverse ways and continue to do so. Here are some key workplace trends to observe as we enter 2024:
Airplane Mode
Taking a break from work emails and Slack notifications might soon become a common practice. A company called Density recommends employees switch to Airplane Mode for 100 minutes to encourage deep focus, where they can read, brainstorm, or do activities that help them concentrate.
"Skills-First" Approach
The era of an expensive college degree being a must-have on resumes might be coming to an end. Companies globally embrace the concept that having the right skills makes you fit for the job, even if you lack a four-year degree or specific job titles.
READ ALSO: U.S. Companies Ditching Degrees, Now Prioritizing Skills Over Diploma
"Rage" Applying
The trend appears on TikTok, where numerous young workers express their fears and frustrations about work. "Rage applying," or applying to multiple jobs out of frustration, may not be a new trend but a proactive strategy used by distressed workers for years. However, the current ease of firing off job applications, particularly with the help of artificial intelligence, enables Gen Z applicants (born between 1997 and 2013) to take this age-old approach to new levels.
End of the Five-Day Office Week
Even with the push to return to the office, working from home is likely here to stay, and data consistently suggests that Return to Office (RTO) policies should be reconsidered. Both employees and management are questioning various aspects of traditional employment, particularly in light of daily inconveniences and commuting expenses.
Rise of the "Queenagers"
Introducing a new group of workers: women who started their careers in the 1980s and, through determination, shattered the glass ceiling to become successful corporate leaders, typically aged between 45 and 65, with older children and higher incomes.
Social Side Gigging
The traditional 9-to-5 job is no longer the sole path to financial security in the modern era, where some office workers opt for weekend jobs with more social interaction or as a creative outlet to fill the social gap caused by remote work. Many in this group choose jobs in food service or bartending.
Unfiltered Zooming
Forget about digital backgrounds! There's been a push to reduce the overuse of social media filters and Photoshop in recent years. 2024, this trend may extend to our digital backgrounds to promote a more authentic remote work culture. Since virtual environments are never flawless, it's better not to hide your actual backdrop. Make sure it's tidy, as professionalism goes a long way.
It's crucial to create an environment that appreciates authenticity, flexibility, and ongoing learning to adapt to these trends, help address the challenges, and seize the opportunities in the evolving workplace of the future.
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