Come 2024, Indian businesses are gearing up for a transformative year in hiring practices, banking on AI adoption and aligning workplace strategies with Gen Z expectations, a recent report by job search website Indeed stated.
The report forecasts a significant shift towards incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into workplaces, with about 59% of employees expressing confidence in their ability to adapt and utilize AI tools effectively. However, a mere 19% of employers have already taken steps or are in the process of implementing next-generation technologies like Generative AI, indicating a need for widespread adoption and implementation in the coming year.
What’s in demand?
To effectively incorporate AI, employers are focusing on following ethical AI principles (42%), enhancing human-AI collaboration (37%), and reskilling/upskilling the workforce (25%). The report further stated that the skill landscape witnessed a shift in 2023, with employees concentrating on Generative AI skills (27%) and programming languages (22%), while employers sought expertise in cybersecurity (37%) and data science and analytics (29%).
The report underscored the increasing demand for skills such as Generative AI, programming languages, and cybersecurity, emphasizing the necessity for adaptability and upskilling in the tech industry.
Purpose-driven work, flexible arrangements and more
Another crucial aspect for employers in the upcoming year is aligning workplace strategies with Gen Z expectations. Gen Z employees prefer flexible work arrangements (38%), purpose-driven work (23%), and technology-driven environments (18%), the survey revealed. Employers aim to meet these expectations by prioritizing flexible work arrangements (26%), technology-driven environments (24%), and professional development opportunities (20%). However, the report stresses the growing importance of purpose-driven work, urging employers to focus on this aspect.
Moreover, 2024 will spotlight diversity and inclusion in workplaces, with 47% of employers planning to adopt robust policies. Strategies include open communication channels (40%), diverse leadership representation (20%), and anti-discrimination reporting (17%). These initiatives signify a commitment to fostering inclusive work environments.