As we step into 2024, the recruitment landscape continues to evolve at an increasingly rapid pace. From tech innovations through to candidate expectations, it’s safe to say that the process of hiring looks very different now to that of just a few years ago. Of course, much of that change was enforced upon the industry thanks to the global pandemic, but we did learn a lot about how easily the industry can adapt and since then, there’s been no looking back.
So we decided to take a look at what the next big hiring trends are set to be for 2024. Here are our predictions for the coming year.
More Emphasis on Remote and Hybrid Work Models
The global shift towards remote and hybrid work models is one of the most significant trends that is reshaping recruitment and has been for quite some time now. In fact, a post-COVID-19 study by Gartner revealed that 74% of companies had plans to permanently shift employees to remote work. Now, you may be thinking that there’s nothing new to this and in some respects, you would be right. However, in the last year or so, we saw many companies pull back on those initial plans to shift to remote work. Zoom, Disney, and Amazon have all stated that they expect employees to work full-time or at least part of their week in the office.
Generally speaking though, taking back what you have already given freely doesn’t always work. We fully expect to see the move to a hybrid working model gather pace once more as candidates place a higher emphasis on remote work capabilities in their demands.
Increasing Demand for AI and Machine Learning Skills
It seems everywhere you look there’s a mention of or an integration related to artificial intelligence (AI). In fact, society in general is finally starting to lean on the wonderful capabilities of AI and its associated technology. What this means in the world of recruitment is that there is a surge in demand for AI and machine learning skills. LinkedIn’s 2023 Emerging Jobs Report indicates a 32% year-over-year growth in AI and ML roles and that is certain to continue into 2024.
Diversity and Inclusion Remains a Key Focus
Diversity and inclusion (D&I) initiatives are central to recruitment strategies with companies now understanding the true value of diversity in the workplace. According to a survey by McKinsey, companies with diverse executive teams were 25% more likely to experience above-average profitability. This should come as no surprise as it’s been a hot topic for quite some time now. The reason we have included this as a hiring trend is simply because it remains a key focus area for employers and recruiters.
Work/Life Balance Guarantees
Employers jumped on the employee well-being bandwagon with gusto in recent years and many spend a great deal of time and effort highlighting just how important finding that perfect balance is. However, instances of employers failing to follow through on their promises of that very same thing have become quite common. Candidates now understand that promises don’t necessarily mean action and are looking for guarantees that potential employers have established mental health policies.
Gen Z to Dominate the Talent Pool
Gen Z candidates are set to become one of the most significant segments of the talent pool in the coming years. Some projections suggest that by 2025, they will make up around 27% of the workforce. This means that we could start to see some subtle shifts in recruitment tactics and strategies as the industry adapts to the unique characteristics of this generation. This could include a more keen focus on digital hiring platforms and a more sizable shift from in-person to online interviews than we have ever seen before. Expect this to also have a massive impact on the remote/hybrid working model.
Short-Term Hiring to Grow
Current hiring trends show that employers are starting to embrace the idea of short-term hires. This is in response to the dynamic requirements of a growing workforce and the major changes and upheavals we have seen in the tech industry in particular. As companies embrace new technologies or adapt to the use of AI and machine learning, they have increased needs for specific skills although not necessarily in the long-term. As such we can expect to see more short-term contracts offered to certain candidates with a view to completing a project. Nothing new you might think, but the popularity of this type of hire among employers is certainly an increasing trend.
As the New Year gets underway one thing we can be absolutely sure of is that the ever-changing recruitment landscape is going to continue to evolve. With companies embracing new tech such as AI and candidates adjusting to hybrid working models, 2024 promises to be the year of big changes.
So if you’re ready to make a change yourself but are in need of some guidance, don’t hesitate to contact us here at Software Placements. Whether you’re looking for a new challenge in your career or a complete change of direction, we’d love to help you get 2024 off to a flying start.