The world around us has developed significantly over the past few years – from advancements in technology and an increase in remote working to a greater emphasis on work-life balance and more awareness around inclusivity and diversity. With organizations continuing to evolve and adapt in response to a rapidly changing society, we’ve rounded up some of the latest trends impacting HR leaders in 2023.1. Rise of remote and hybrid workThe arrival of the COVID pandemic saw us swapping our daily commutes for a stroll downstairs as offices closed and we were told to stay at home. Despite lockdown measures now being a thing of the past, the popularity of the home office remains in 2023, with 91% of workers saying they'd prefer working hybrid or fully remote versus heading straight back into the office full time. What’s more, 59% of employees are more likely to choose an employer that offers remote work opportunities over one that doesn’t.While a permanent remote working model is proving popular, many HR leaders and employees believe working in the office is important for collaborating and building relationships with team members. With many HR leaders being impacted by this ongoing trend, there are several factors to consider when choosing between an on-site, hybrid or remote working model – from costs and team relationships to equipment requirements and productivity levels. However, by giving your employees the flexibility to log on from wherever they work best, you’re likely to boost morale and wellbeing while also demonstrating a level of trust. 2. Importance of employee wellbeingWith 4 in 10 US workers reporting increasing rates of burnout, trends around employee wellbeing are at the forefront of many HR leaders’ minds. Focusing on wellbeing is not only crucial for employees, but also for HR leaders themselves, with research showing 42% of HR teams are also struggling with burnout.The taboo around mental health has been challenged in recent years, with conversations becoming more common and actively encouraged in 2023. However, it’s important to note that 35% of workers still feel uneasy about expressing feelings of burnout with their manager, showing how critical it is to actively encourage dialogue around wellbeing throughout the workplace. From regularly checking in with employees and encouraging open conversation to organizing staff socials outside work, there are plenty of ways to boost wellbeing among employees. One particularly effective method is encouraging workers to build a healthier work-life balance, as Paul McDonald from Robert Half suggests: “Running on empty can have a negative effect on employees’ mental health and wellbeing, and managers should make it a priority to encourage their teams to enjoy a well-deserved vacation.”Employee wellbeing is at the forefront of YuLife’s mission, making it a useful tool for HR leaders navigating this 2023 trend. Offering health and wellbeing benefits to employees through a high-engagement app, YuLife is a Group Insurance company with a difference, encouraging employees to live their healthiest, happiest and best lives every single day. Find out more here. 3. Increased use of AI and automationWhile generative AI is still in its early days – inside and outside the workplace – many HR leaders are actively employing the technology in 2023 to streamline various processes, HR leaders are likely to find themselves navigating the ethical and practical implications of these technologies as they continue to progress from recruitment to workplace management to employee engagement. Some companies are even utilizing AI to create virtual assistants and chatbots, which can help out with everyday enquiries and routine tasks. By handing these errands over to AI, HR leaders can free up time and improve productivity and output. Regarding the future of AI in the workplace, a McKinsey report provides some perspective: “Excitement over this technology is palpable, and early pilots are compelling. However, a full realization of the technology’s benefits will take time, and leaders in business and society still have considerable challenges to address. These include managing the risks inherent in generative AI, determining what new skills and capabilities the workforce will need, and rethinking core business processes such as retraining and developing new skills.”4. Greater need for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)Now more than ever, workplaces need to double down on creating an inclusive workspace for all. This means HR leaders will need to plan and implement new methods to ensure DEI is at the forefront of recruitment and workplace management processes.While numerous companies have pledged to increase DEI budgets in 2023, only 13% of senior executives proactively support DEI initiatives.Therefore, along with considering how to improve the inclusivity of recruitment and management processes, HR leaders also face a bigger task of leading the way in encouraging positive behavior and a culture of unconditional acceptance within the workplace.One way impacted HR leaders can approach this demand is by incorporating Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), which are created to foster a more diverse and inclusive workplace. As outlined by Great Place to Work: “They're usually led and participated in by employees who share a characteristic, whether it's gender, ethnicity, religious affiliation, lifestyle, or interest. The groups exist to provide support and help in personal or career development and to create a safe space where employees can bring their whole selves to the table.”5. Addressing the widening skills gap The skills gap has been a big trend impacting HR leaders for several years now – and the gap is continuing to widen, with 69% of 600 US HR professionals reporting a skills gap in their organization in 2023, compared with 55% in 2021. To address the widening skills gap, HR leaders will need to invest in training and development programs to equip employees with the skills needed for the future of work. Investing in the development of employees will also improve levels of engagement which, in turn, could help with employee retention.When it comes to improving employee development methods, 2023 is continuing to see a rise in strategic learning, with 75% of US companies implementing custom learning programs. This is where training programs are specifically designed to align with what the organization requires – whether these are hard skills, which tend to be more technical in nature, or soft skills, which could involve development in communication and time management. To avoid disrupting the flow of the workday, many companies are also swapping traditional training methods for micro-learning, performance coaching and on-the-job training, while also asking employees how best they learn and tailoring the training to facilitate this. About YuLifeYuLife is an employee benefits and wellbeing app that’s reimagining the insurance industry by protecting lives, rewarding living and inspiring life. We’re on a mission to transform traditional insurance into a life-enhancing experience each employee will value and use daily. How does it work? Our award-winning app uses behavioral science and game mechanics to reward your people for living well while offering protection in case of crisis.And with our top-rated employee assistance program, your team gets access to mental, financial and social support, nutritionists, life coaches and more to help them live their best lives.Because we believe that your employees should benefit from their insurance from day one – and that wellbeing should be accessible every day, for everyone.Request a demo for your team today.