The Josh Bersin Company

A Tumultuous End To 2024, What Has Changed As We Look To 2025?

Dec 19, 2024

The discussion delves into the tumultuous events of 2024, exploring how global conflicts and economic shifts have reshaped the workplace. It highlights the evolving dynamics of DEI and presents a new leadership model. A striking contrast is noted in the labor market, with blue-collar shortages juxtaposed against white-collar job fears. Concerns about AI's impact on employment loom large, with 77% of workers apprehensive. Yet, there's optimism for AI-driven change in 2025 and the crucial transformation of HR into a more integral role.

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Quick takeaways

Global conflicts and political polarization are deeply affecting workplace dynamics, necessitating a focus on employee well-being and collaboration.

The labor market's bifurcation reveals security concerns for white-collar workers amidst low unemployment rates, urging organizations to invest in reskilling and support initiatives.

Deep dives

The Impact of Global Conflict on Workplace Harmony

In 2024, the pervasive nature of global conflicts, including wars in Ukraine and Israel, has significantly impacted workplace dynamics. The ongoing discord in various regions, exacerbated by social media discourse, has seeped into the lives of employees, challenging their mental well-being and sense of collaboration. This reality has made it difficult for companies to maintain a harmonious work environment, highlighting the broader societal issues that affect workplace morale. Leaders are urged to recognize these influences and to foster an atmosphere that prioritizes connectivity and support amidst external disturbances.

Reflections on 2024: Challenges and Opportunities for the Future

28min

In this discussion I reflect on the significant events and trends of 2024, highlighting the impact of global conflicts, economic change, labor market dynamics, and the transformative role of AI in organizations.

What has changed? I discuss the evolving nature of DEI, the new model of leadership which emerged, and the transformation of HR into a more integrated and essential function within businesses.

I also describe the two-edged labor market, with severe labor shortages in hourly and blue collar work yet a lack of opportunities in white collar jobs. In fact I argue that our employment situation is not as happy as one may believe: the hyper low unemployment at the low end is masking unemployment fears among white collar workers. And as I discuss, 77% of employees are now fearful that AI could negatively impact their jobs and careers.

I also point out the enormous opportunity for AI-driven change in 2025, which will not be easy or simple for companies to adopt. And I celebrate the central role of HR, moving to the Systemic HR© model ahead.

To all our listeners: stay tuned for our major report on “The Rise of the Superworker” coming in January, an in-depth discussion about the 15 imperatives for change and AI transformation in 2025.

This groundbreaking report and related tools will be available to Galileo users and our corporate members. Sign up for Galileo today.

Key Points

2024 was marked by global conflicts affecting employees around the world
Economic growth has been uneven, despite inflation’s impact
Labor shortages continue, particularly in hourly jobs, while white-collar jobs are hard to find
The low unemployment rate is misleading: many workers cannot find jobs
AI is barely beginning to revolutionize work processes and organizational structures.
DEI initiatives are being reframed as business priorities rather than social agendas.
Leadership has become a responsibility for every employee, not just management.
HR is evolving from a support function to a strategic partner in business.
Organizations must focus on data management and governance as AI grows.
Well-being in the workplace has plummeted, yet it remains essential for business success.
HR is now taking on a very different role in our companies.

Chapters

00:00 Reflections on 2024: A Year of Conflict and Change 03:32 Economic Landscape: Growth Amidst Challenges 07:32 Labor Market Dynamics: Shortages and Opportunities 12:05 AI Revolution: Transforming Work and Organizations 16:14 DEI and HR Tech: Evolving Strategies for Inclusion 20:35 Well-being and Leadership: Cultivating Healthy Organizations 24:52 The Future of HR: Strategic Integration and Transformation

Additional Resources

100 Amazing Use-Cases for Galileo, The AI-Powered Assistant For Everything HR

AI in HR: Certificate Program in The Josh Bersin Academy

The Road to AI-Powered Productivity: Four Stages of Transformation

Digital Twins, Digital Employees, And Agents Everywhere

Adecco: Adapting to an AI-Driven World of Work

Note: Systemic HR© is now a registered trademark of The Josh Bersin Company.