The work environment is going through rapid changes, urging employers to pay closer attention to their workforce’s needs and preferences. Dexian’s recent study explains this dynamic, covering key trends and insights with a comprehensive survey of 2,000 employees and 1,325 HR decision-makers.
Dexian’s findings show a large disconnect between employee expectations and employer provisions, particularly in recruitment processes and work arrangements. As companies work with these changes, understanding and addressing these gaps become imperative to maintain competitiveness and employee satisfaction.
What workers want vs. what employers deliver
Dexian’s study looks at a clear disconnect between what employees need and what employers are providing across several critical aspects. Gaps are particularly evident in recruitment practices and work arrangements, which are key to shaping the overall employee experience.
As companies strive to adapt to new work norms, bridging this divide is a requirement for creating a productive and engaged workforce.
The disruption to recruitment
Artificial intelligence is now a requirement in recruitment, fundamentally altering how companies identify and engage with potential hires. According to Dexian’s study, 60% of leaders are fighting with the complexities of integrating AI into the hiring process.
The personal nature of recruitment is at risk of being overshadowed by technology.
Excessive reliance on AI can detract from the human touch that is important in the initial stages of employment. While AI can simplify certain aspects of hiring, it brings certain challenges in maintaining candidate experience and engagement. Employers must find a balance to make sure technology improves, rather than hinders, the recruitment process.
How employees really feel about AI in job hunting
Employee sentiment towards AI in hiring is mixed, as reflected in the study’s findings. A significant 72% of employees believe companies depend too heavily on technology and AI for recruitment. Only 48% of employees feel that tech-enabled job searches actually help them find the right job more quickly. Furthermore, just 24% support the use of AI in reviewing applications and resumes.
Companies need to be mindful of these perceptions to attract and retain top talent effectively.
Why culture is getting sidelined in hiring decisions
Dexian’s study states that employers often overlook the importance of cultural fit when hiring new employees. While 62% of employees have undergone skills assessments, only 43% have experienced cultural or values assessments during the hiring process. Such a disparity suggests that companies prioritize technical skills over alignment with organizational culture.
To complement this, only 47% of employees report that their employers measure their sentiments regarding the success or failure in living the organization’s culture and values.
Focusing more on cultural alignment helps companies make sure that new hires are skilled and a good match for the organizational values.
Only half of the surveyed companies have established a value-based culture using employee surveys and data to identify what is important to their workforce, which shows a significant area for improvement. A strong cultural fit can drive employee engagement and loyalty.
The new normal
Dexian covers a growing disconnect between employees’ preferred work arrangements and the policies enforced by their employers. Only 66% of employees believe their current work arrangement matches their preference, indicating a substantial gap in alignment. Discrepancies are further emphasized by the fact that just 48% of organizations actively survey their employees about their work arrangement preferences.
Mismatches like these have tangible repercussions on employee performance and satisfaction. Employees who do not work in their preferred arrangements report lower scores across several positive workplace outcomes, including productivity, engagement, and career growth. Specifically, 20% of these employees demonstrate reduced optimism about their career prospects and a diminished sense of connection to their workplace.
Moreover, the potential for employee turnover looms large if companies insist on mandatory return-to-office policies. About 32% of employees indicated they would consider changing jobs if forced to abandon their preferred work arrangements.
The urgency of upskilling and reskilling to stay relevant
The pace of technological change demands continuous learning and adaptation from the workforce. According to the study, 75% of employees acknowledge the necessity for ongoing reinvention to keep up with professional advancements.
49% of employees find career progression challenging due to the rapid changes in their workplaces.
Difficulties in planning future career paths is a concern for 59% of employees, who feel uncertain due to the constantly evolving technological landscape. Because of this, there is a need for organizations to support continuous learning initiatives. Doing so means they can help employees build their careers more effectively amidst these changes.
Bridging the AI skills gap
Integration of AI in the workplace will be a challenge and an opportunity. A WalkMe study shows that 41% of respondents use AI tools daily, and 84% believe that AI is increasingly important for career advancement.
Despite this, only 15% of employees consider themselves AI experts, and a mere 7% have received extensive AI training. This gap in AI proficiency points to a critical area for improvement in employee development programs.
Similarly, a Celigo study identifies that while most respondents have experienced early success with AI implementation, widespread adoption is hindered by a lack of understanding of AI’s potential. Specifically, 47% of respondents cite this knowledge gap as a primary barrier.
Letting non-techies in on AI
Overburdened IT departments are pushing organizations to seek innovative solutions for supporting non-technical employees. Organizations have found the importance of providing tools and resources that help these employees create and manage their own AI solutions while maintaining proper governance.
In doing so, companies can alleviate the strain on IT teams and build a more inclusive environment where all employees can contribute to technological advancements.
Why listening to employees is so important
Dexian’s study shows a serious issue: many companies are failing to ask and listen to their employees’ needs effectively. A gap in understanding can lead to disengagement, lower productivity, and increased turnover.
Employees are demanding more from their employers, seeking better alignment with their preferences and career aspirations.
Meeting these requirements is key for organizational success. Companies that actively listen to and address employee needs are more likely to have a positive work environment, gain a competitive edge, and improve the overall employee experience.
