Unleash is the most influential HR conference and exhibition in the world, showcasing future technologies and innovators that shape the future of work. This year's event did not disappoint. Here, we have gathered the themes we heard from speakers and HR influencers.
Trends
1. AI is here to stay: The quality of AI models is gaining focus
We must make peace with the machines and let them sort through our data to show us what matters. Let them do the boring work so we can focus on the human side of value-added work. With so many AI models being developed, the focus is shifting from what they can do to the quality of their output.
2. Employee Experience (EX) is the entire organization’s responsibility
Being the foundation for so many parts of the organization’s ability to succeed—whether you like it or not, EX increasingly takes center stage in how work is done. The post-pandemic question of remote work, quiet quitting, and interest in purposeful work show employees’ desire and authority to change their working methods. With employees’ strong stand, EX must be on the managers’, HR’s, and Senior Leaders’ agendas.
3. Developing and transforming your people trumps execution
With the flattening economic size of the working population and continued talent shortage, success is becoming less about talent acquisition and execution. Instead, organizations must empower their existing people on their transformation journey. Development is still key, and the reskilling problem must be solved for the future of work.
4. Inclusion is for everyone
Everyone should feel included, and everyone should make others feel included. HR should not have DEI as a problem to solve; it should be used as a key to success by being an organization-wide priority embedded at all levels. Women must be able to lead on their terms, the transition to employee transparency is key, and equity is still not leveraged nearly enough. This change starts with accessible HR and leaders.
5. The acceleration of technology gives HR the longed-for and now essential edge
With the wave of new technology, complexity increases, new challenges emerge, and new expectations are set. Tech creates new ways of working and visualizes problems that otherwise still exist but stay hidden or up for individual interpretation. With a tailored tech strategy, HR can unlock new levels of productivity, collaboration, talent acquisition, scalability, and remote work and ultimately prove their true business impact.
6. Growing the next generation of leaders is not HR’s role
While HR is often left responsible for grooming future leaders, they should not be. The more effective approach is when managers lead the development of their team members. It is a mindset shift and a change in priorities and tools.