Recruiting and keeping diverse personnel in 2022 will continue to be vital due to the great resignation. As a result, trends in diversity, equity, and inclusion are top of mind.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth will increase from 153.5 million to 165.4 million over the next decade, mainly in sectors like healthcare and social support, which are expected to flourish as the globe recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic. According to CNBC, another 46% of full-time employed U.S. individuals are actively looking for or considering a new job.
However, acquiring diverse staff and figuring out how to keep them once they’re in the door will be challenging for all businesses. Here are some forecasted trends for 2022, as well as suggestions for how businesses might make their workplaces more inclusive.
Unconscious bias training should be implemented
According to ‘Hive’, 71% of employees believe they are able to be themselves at work, which makes them feel more confident, engaged, and generally happy. Minority groups, however, are more prone to face bias, leading to a fear of being themselves at the risk of their employment.
Due to persistent unconscious prejudice, minority groups feel unsupported and discouraged at work, despite the fact that the majority of employees feel safe showing up and being themselves. Employees need to believe that their differences are valued and supported by their bosses in order to produce their best job and feel like their best selves. Unconscious bias training may assist in ensuring that all employees are properly trained to treat coworkers with decency and respect.
Reduce the stigma associated with mental illness
Employee mental health has been a big concern throughout the pandemic. According to USA Today, many employees have felt alone or socially confined, leading to an increase in anxiety and sadness.
Employers began focusing on putting in place programmes to normalise workplace battles with mental health issues. This trend is expected to continue through 2022 and beyond. Companies are finding new methods to help their employees by offering free therapy and counselling tools, both online and in person. Prioritizing employees’ mental health and well-being leads to increased productivity and longevity.
Allow for flexibility in the workplace
Many changes occurred in the workplace last year, and additional ones are expected in 2022. According to BBC, several organisations are offering staff hybrid or entirely remote work choices. This provides employees with flexibility based on their health issues while also addressing work-life balance. Companies will continue to embrace a virtual work environment and will provide new and improved methods to stay connected electronically.
See how HealthBoxHR can help your business nurture these trends with our Performance and Mental Health Management features!