Here are the articles about what is happening in the workplace that I found more interesting in July.
Gallup - State of the Global Workplace: 2023 Report: Gallup's report reveals that employee engagement has rebounded, reaching a record-high 23% in 2022 after a drop during the pandemic. However, when combined with actively disengaged employees, low engagement still costs the global economy $8.8 trillion or 9% of global GDP. Stress levels remain a concern, with 44% of employees worldwide reporting significant stress, and over half of employees are actively or passively looking for new job opportunities. The report provides in-depth data, visualizations, and regional breakdowns of these findings across 99 pages.
McKinsey Global Institute - Empty spaces and hybrid places: This excellent McKinsey article talks about the pandemic’s lasting impact on real estate and how hybrid work is here to stay. On average, workers are going to the office 3.5 days per week, 30 percent below pre-pandemic levels. The report explores its impact on demographics, real estate, and city vibrancy, which is essential for leaders in location strategy, workplace design, and workforce planning.
Josh Bersin - Understanding AI in HR: Josh Bersin and the team shared a whitepaper for HR professionals presenting insights on AI's impact on HR and work. The report covers foundations, vendor offerings, AI solution categories, and pre-investment considerations.
My HR future - How Can AI Transform Human Potential and Redefine Meaningful Work?: The article discusses how AI is revolutionizing the workplace by augmenting human capabilities and enabling personalized experiences. Contrary to fears of job displacement, AI amplifies human potential, freeing employees from mundane tasks and allowing them to focus on higher-value, fulfilling work. AI-driven talent management provides personalized training, career development, and performance feedback, fostering a sense of growth. Additionally, AI can help eliminate unconscious biases in decision-making. To embrace AI-driven transformation, organizations need a cultural shift that places the human experience at its core, fostering continuous learning, collaboration, and innovation. HR leaders play a crucial role in driving this transformation and enabling meaningful work in the future.
Harvard Business Review - 3 Ways to Reenergize Your Team When Morale Is Low: Employees everywhere face chronic low engagement, reduced productivity, and increasing stress, exacerbated by economic uncertainty and the potential impact of AI on jobs. To attract talent and foster appealing work environments where people thrive, rediscovering the human qualities of work is crucial. Managers' role is pivotal, influencing team morale, performance, and organizational behavior by up to 40%. The article presents three action areas for managers and leaders to improve team morale, well-being, and performance, especially during challenging times.
Microsoft - It’s Not a Career Ladder, It’s a Career Playground: The article highlighted that the traditional goal of climbing the career ladder has become outdated in today's hybrid and flexible work environment. The new career landscape resembles a climbing wall, offering numerous opportunities for individuals to find steady footing as they pursue success. Job transitions are more frequent, with people prioritizing happiness and well-being over reaching the top. The focus now lies on seizing diverse opportunities, embracing transferable skills, and creating personalized career paths based on individual interests and passions. The article emphasizes the need for organizations to adapt and celebrate unique career journeys to attract and retain top talent in this evolving job market.