Workplace Shifts in 2024: How CEOs, Employees, and Job Seekers are Adapting

46%

In 2024, Glassdoor's word of the year, "divisive," reflected tensions in the workplace, especially regarding job searches and HR practices. Mentions of "ghosting" in job applications grew by 46%, and "AI" discussions rose by 42%. Additionally, 65% of workers felt stuck in their careers, while 87% opposed ghosting during the interview process. Conversations also highlighted challenges like pay equity, with 66% of women feeling underpaid compared to 59% of men. Return-to-office policies also remained a hot topic, rising 7%. These insights highlight ongoing challenges in employee engagement and HR strategies.

73%

The 2024 KPMG CEO Outlook reveals that 73% of CEOs are confident about their organization’s growth over the next three years, despite economic challenges. Around 80% are prioritizing AI investments, and 77% see workforce upskilling as critical. Supply chain resilience and ESG strategies also remain top concerns. CEOs are balancing innovation with strategic caution to navigate an uncertain global landscape.

30,000

California has removed degree requirements for nearly 30,000 state jobs, part of Governor Gavin Newsom's initiative to create more career opportunities for residents without college diplomas. This move, along with the proposal to eliminate such requirements for 32,000 more jobs, aims to focus on skills over degrees and will include new learning and employment records to help job seekers showcase their experience.

91%

Workplace loneliness affects 13% of employees, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and turnover, with affected workers taking 4.6 more sick days annually, according to IBI. Social support reduces loneliness by 91%, emphasizing the importance of fostering communication, psychological safety, and work-life balance. Factors like overbooked schedules and office returns don't necessarily help, and comprehensive corporate policies are crucial to addressing this public health concern.

25%

Global hiring intentions for Q1 2025 remain steady at a 25% net employment outlook, with the U.S. leading at 34% and the IT sector at 53%. Sectors like IT (37%), financials (33%), and healthcare (27%) have the strongest hiring intentions. Employers are focusing on retention strategies, especially as attrition may rise in early 2025. Over half of employers plan to close AI skills gaps with targeted upskilling efforts.