In 2024, the landscape of work will continue to see significant transformation, driven by ongoing adaptations in business practices and employee expectations. This coming year promises further evolution in workplace norms, impacting where, when, and how work is conducted.
Hybrid Work Model: Seeking Equilibrium
The debate surrounding the optimal balance between remote and office work persists. Doug Rode, Managing Director at PageGroup UK and Ireland, notes the ongoing challenge in striking this balance. Businesses are increasingly influencing this dynamic, as Kelly Tucker, Founder of HR Star, points out the difficulty in fostering company culture remotely. James Reed, CEO of Reed.com, observes a trend towards acknowledging the productivity benefits of flexible working arrangements. Josh Bersin, HR analyst and founder of The Josh Bersin Company, predicts a shift towards a more natural integration of remote work into standard business practices.
Office Space Utilisation: A New Approach
The trend of downsizing office spaces, as seen with companies like HSBC and Meta, is expected to continue. 2024 may witness more organisations reassessing their office needs, particularly as costly leases approach renewal. The rise in flexible workspace solutions and the concept of shared office spaces are responses to the high costs and changing requirements of traditional office setups. Workspace management technology is facilitating this transition, enabling more efficient use of office space.
Artificial Intelligence: Integrating into Daily Workflows
AI is set to further disrupt the workplace in 2024. With tools like Google’s AI assistant and Microsoft’s Copilot gaining traction, AI’s role in enhancing productivity and work quality is becoming more pronounced. Bersin foresees AI becoming an integral part of workplace tools, offering advanced assistance and insights. The demand for AI skills in job descriptions is increasing, underscoring the importance of up-skilling in this domain.
Four-Day Work Week: Gaining Momentum
The conclusion of the UK’s largest four-day-week trial in 2023 has sparked increased interest in this work model. Nearly two-thirds of UK corporate decision-makers are contemplating its implementation. Julia Bersin, Senior Research Analyst at The Josh Bersin Company, suggests that demands for more flexible work arrangements, especially from younger employees, may drive the adoption of the four-day week as an alternative to remote working.
Conclusion
As 2024 unfolds, the working world will continue to be shaped by the themes that emerged in 2023. The ongoing adaptation to hybrid work models, the increasing integration of AI in the workplace, and the potential rise of the four-day work week are key trends that will define the future of work. The outcome of these developments, whether favouring employers or employees, will become clearer as the year progresses.