The workforce is graying but not in the way you might think. While gray hair usually signals experience, the graying workforce refers to the rise of a more technically skilled worker who seems to be replacing the traditional blue-collar employee. These so-called gray-collar employees are more likely to have a college degree, oversee more technical roles and prefer not to be confined to a desk.
This article from HR Executive Magazine cited a Bureau of Labor Statistics factoid that 13 of the 20 fastest growing occupations will be categorized as gray-collar jobs. Managers of the future need to understand the demand for these highly skilled workers who manage robotics and artificial intelligence, and be mindful that they will require a longer training period.
The Great Resignation is a term used to describe the power shift that has occurred in the workplace after the pandemic. Fueling the escalation in resignations is employees’ search for better work/life balance and more opportunities to advance professionally. Experts suggest that flexibility as well as providing new skills, a degree and apprentice-like experiences can help recruit employees and satisfy those who remain in the workplace.
Rounding out the author’s three future HR trends are employees’ desire for more transparency from leadership and a more trusting, ethical work environment.