Shaping tomorrow's workforce: Key trends and insights from the Future of Jobs report

The WEF Future of Jobs Report 2023 offers insights into the global job market, and we're here to break it down, focusing on key trends and actionable strategies.

Electives team

Published on

Feb 13, 2024

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Insights from Ellen Raim, Founder of People MatterWe focus more on solving than preventing People problems.

In a world where jobs are transforming faster than ever, staying ahead of the curve is essential for companies looking to build a resilient workforce. The WEF Future of Jobs Report 2023 offers insights into the global job market, and we're here to break it down, focusing on key trends and actionable strategies for businesses in North America and beyond.

Embracing automation

The Future of Jobs report highlights a widespread rise in companies adopting AI and automation. This shift is particularly noticeable in North America, where businesses increasingly turn to automation. The key takeaway? Training is crucial. Companies need to equip their employees with the right skills for the jobs of the future.

Automation adoption rates are notably high in the automotive and aerospace industries.
Workforce strategies heavily lean toward learning and on-the-job training, with 81% of respondents in North America expecting to implement these strategies in the next five years.

What should People leaders do to embrace automation?

Invest in comprehensive training programs that equip employees with relevant skills for the future of work.
Use on-the-job training to bridge any skill gaps and keep your team adaptable.
Encourage a culture of continuous learning to help your team stay updated on AI and other automation trends.

Boost your organizations performance through effective training

Prioritizing leadership + social influence

A key strategic priority identified in the report for 2023 to 2027 is leadership and social influence, ranking higher in skills strategies than as a core skill for workers. North American businesses are focusing more on upskilling workers in leadership.

Leadership training is a top priority.
North American industries like supply Chain and transportation, as well as advanced manufacturing, are prioritizing leadership development across all skills.
Micro-credentials, like certificate programs, are recognized as potential accelerators for skills-based talent management.

What should People leaders do to prioritize leadership and social influence?

Implement leadership development programs tailored to industry-specific needs.
Foster a leadership mindset at all organizational levels to drive strategic goals.
Prioritize leadership skills alongside technical skills in training programs.
Embrace micro-credential programs to diversify talent pipelines.

DEI is a must-have

While less than one-fifth of organizations surveyed intend to run DEI programs explicitly, more than two-thirds of surveyed organizations have DEI initiatives in place. Priorities within these programs vary, with a strong focus on comprehensive training for managers and staff.

Women are consistently the highest-priority group for DEI programs across regions and industries.
Globally, Gen Z is the second-most common priority group providing a constructive way to address the way those under 25 are impacting the labor market.
Overall, DEI training for managers is a top priority.

Learn how to build a more diverse and inclusive workplace

What should People leaders do to support DEI initiatives at work?

Develop DEI training programs for both managerial and staff levels.
Tailor DEI initiatives to regional and industry-specific priorities.
Foster inclusivity across physical and virtual spaces through targeted training.

Download our DEI holidays calendar

Navigating tomorrow's workforce challenges

As the job market evolves, strategic planning is crucial. By preparing for the future of work, investing in leadership development and championing diversity, you can position your organization and your team for success. The key is ongoing training, adaptability and a keen understanding of emerging trends. The future of work is in your hands, and your actions today will shape it for the better.

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