Rather than eliminating jobs, AI and automation are shifting the focus toward tasks that require human creativity and problem-solving. The change emphasizes the importance of upskilling, particularly in technical areas such as software testing and cybersecurity, to adapt to the evolving landscape.

Creating a preventive culture is key to avoiding personnel issues with remote work, writes psychology professor Ashley Jordan. Leaders can prevent issues like social loafing by setting clear expectations about behavior and work effort in the remote environment. Jordan advises leaders to focus on coaching and understanding, rather than imposing strict policies, thus fostering a supportive and productive environment.

Employee engagement levels are at an all-time low, according to executive coach Marshall Goldsmith. Many companies rely on ineffective engagement tools such as annual surveys and wellness programs, but these methods often become routine and fail to genuinely connect with employees, leading to disengagement when feedback is not acted upon. Goldsmith advises treating engagement as a relationship to build, rather than a system to fix and getting specific with employees, both in understanding their needs and recognizing their accomplishments.

Jeff Wade, global chief information security officer, cybersecurity strategist and thought leader, looks at how onboarding can play an important part in overall cybersecurity strategy. Integrate security into a new hire's experience, gamify and incentivize engagement and scale the program across the organization, Wade advises.

Companies are increasingly upfront about the expectation for employees to work long hours, with job postings explicitly stating the need to keep up with demanding schedules, sometimes exceeding 70 hours per week. This direct messaging is intended to attract candidates willing to embrace intense workloads and discourage those seeking work-life balance. The trend marks a widespread shift in employer demands amid a more competitive job market. "The pendulum has swung, and companies are in control again," says Lori Reed, president of recruiting firm Schechter Reed.

Dull office design is driving a significant number of UK employees aged 24 to 35 to consider leaving their jobs. According to a report from Kinly, 46% of that age group are contemplating resignation due to uninspiring workspaces, with 21% feeling that such environments negatively impact their mental health.

A survey by Dayforce shows that fewer employees are completely disconnecting from work while on vacation, with only 37% doing so compared with 47% three years ago. The report highlights the pressures employees face to maintain productivity during the summer, with 79% feeling this from their employers. The trend of "quiet vacationing" -- working in secret or using time off for personal needs -- underscores the ongoing struggle to maintain boundaries between work and personal life.

Colleges are leveraging AI tools to help students and recent graduates strengthen their networking and communication skills as they begin their job searches. Platforms like FinalRoundAI, Big Interview, and LinkedIn Interview Prep support practice and confidence-building. AI-powered networking solutions such as Protopia also make it easier for students to connect directly with alumni. These AI tools lower barriers to networking, especially for students hesitant to attend traditional events, ensuring broader access to valuable professional connections.

IHRIM's latest issue of Workforce Solutions Review dives into how HR professionals are translating AI strategies into real-world outcomes. Explore a curated collection of articles on implementation challenges, expert guidance for driving meaningful transformation and more.

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