As we enter 2023, we reflect on what has been a turbulent year for HR and the lessons learnt; from endeavouring to “live” with Covid-19 and put the pandemic behind us, to dealing with the pressures arising from a worsening cost of living crisis, a huge increase in industrial action and ongoing uncertainty about the future status of those employment rights underwritten by EU law – what a year it has been!
What should HR’s top three resolutions be for 2023?
1. ATTRACTING AND RETAINING TALENT
2022 saw a challenging year for recruitment as a result of the talent shortages, the ‘great resignation’ coupled with the cost-of-living crisis, resulting in the increased use of agency staff and unsteady workforces.
RESOLUTION
Be clear on the businesses priorities, reviewing recruitment processes and consider innovative solutions to become a standout employer.
2. ADDRESS “QUIET QUITTING”
2022 also saw the rise of the “Quiet Quitting” trend, the concern that there might be a lack of enthusiasm and engagement with some employees doing the bare minimum to scrape by.
RESOLUTION
Take a more proactive approach to quiet quitting by focusing on employee engagement and nurturing a positive working culture whilst setting clear and achievable performance targets.
3. SUPPORT EMPLOYEES
With a recession looming, the rise of energy bills and the continuing cost-of-living crisis, employers are encouraged to take a supportive and sympathetic approach towards employees experiencing financial worry, which may be inextricably linked to a decline in mental health and wellbeing.
RESOLUTION
Review benefits and communicate these to employees, consider a financial wellbeing policy to acknowledge the challenges and breakdown any stigma, signpost employees to internal or external help, embrace flexible working, encourage one-to-one conversations with managers and avoid employee burn out.
Whilst the above resolutions only scratch the surface of the hurdles to come in 2023, we are confident that HR will remain resilient, responsive and proactive this year and will yet again help business leaders to navigate the challenging landscape that lies ahead.
For help setting or implementing your HR resolutions this year, please get in touch with our award-winning employment team at www.brabners.com
Enjoyed this? Read more from Trishna Modessa-Parekh, Brabners