Human Resources Trends Expected In H2 2020

1. Bigger Focus On Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) will become a bigger trend in the coming months. The world is changing right before our eyes, and HR practitioners will need to support the positive and not-so-positive changes that are occurring. DEI is not new, but the lens by which HR practitioners will have to manage this topic will require fresh ideas and strategies that speak to the now.

2. More Organizations Speaking On Social Issues

With the global health pandemic, racial injustices and inequality surrounding us, it is even more important for organizations to look inward and take a clear, public stance on social issues. As a result, diversity and inclusion initiatives will be of paramount importance now more than ever, and employees will hold their companies accountable to such initiatives

3. Heightened Interest In Workplace Culture

I think it’s back to the most fundamental aspects of our shared humanity and that’s caring about people and putting them first. I think we will see a heightened interest in workplace culture and climate surveys, employee listening sessions and town hall meetings. Further, the diversity, equity and inclusion work of HR will be front and center as we strive toward anti-racist work environments.

4. Improvement In Workplace Technology Systems

We expect to see improvements in workplace technology systems. With the drastic changes that organizations had to implement recently, having better collaboration tools, remote connectivity platforms (i.e., VPNs) and stronger IT infrastructures will be key. Additionally, enhanced employee training will be essential, so that employees are better equipped to transition both in/out of office effectively with little to no disruptions.

5. HR Leaders As Culture Champions

Human resources leaders will elevate more broadly to culture champions. There’s a surprising percentage of executive leaders that do not feel HR has a place championing organizational culture even though they’re often relied on as the front line defense against hiring those who do not fit culturally. Company culture is an employee relations and retention tool, after all