2024 Ahoy! Hiring focus on human-AI collaboration, Gen Z expectations

Indian businesses are gearing up for big changes in hiring in 2024 with the momentum gaining on adopting artificial intelligence (AI) and meeting the expectations of Gen Z employees.

59% of employees are very confident in their ability to adapt and utilise AI tools, indicating that there is likely to be widespread acceptance of AI at work next year, reveals a report by Indeed, a global hiring platform. Meanwhile, only 19% of surveyed employers have already implemented or are in the process of implementing next-generation technologies such as Generative AI at workplace during the coming year.

42% of respondents said adhering to ethical AI principles will be a crucial component of employers’ strategies to successfully implement AI. Employers also think that reskilling/upskilling the workforce to meet the skill demand (25%) and enhancing human-AI collaboration (37%) will prove to be significant initiatives to be put into practice. Companies aim to hire people with skills like cybersecurity (37%) and data science and analytics (29%), while employees were primarily focused on acquiring skills like generative AI skills (27 %) and programming languages (22%).

Sashi Kumar, head of sales, Indeed India, highlights the fact that prevalence of roles like data analysts, software engineers, sales engineers, project managers, and designers showcases the diverse landscape of expertise sought after by employers. She adds, “What stand out are the key skills that have garnered significant attention this year. From the rise in generative AI skills to the enduring importance of programming languages and the growing demand for expertise in cybersecurity, it's clear that adaptability and upskilling remain pivotal for success in the tech industry. "

Focus on Gen Z

Furthermore, aligning Gen Z aspirations with workplace tactics will be a critical factor for organisations in 2024. Most (38%) Gen Z workers want flexible work schedules, while 23% want purpose-driven work and 18% surveyors want tech-driven work environment in their places of employment. These expectations are being met by employers, as indicated by poll respondents who say that in order to draw and keep Gen Z talent, they will place a high priority on providing flexible work schedules (26%), a technology-driven workplace (24%), and opportunities for professional growth (20%). However, purpose-driven work seems to be an important aspect that employers must now largely focus on.

In fact, diversity and inclusion will also gain emphasis next year since companies have indicated that they intend to adopt policies that promote diversity and inclusion, with 47% of employers projecting a significant increase in the adoption of these policies.

“The top three strategies that employers plan to implement include open communication channels (40%), diverse leadership representation (20%), and anti-discrimination reporting (17%). These steps signify a commitment to creating inclusive workplaces,” says the report.