Emerging Human Resource Trends in 2015

Human resource trends change just as frequently as fashion (if not more). Because the industry is constantly evolving, regulations regularly adapting, and employees changing as well, small businesses have to be flexible enough to keep up with them. Whether you have a larger human resources department or you are handling all of the HR work yourself, you can get a step ahead by familiarizing yourself with these emerging human resource trends in 2015.

Generation Z Has Arrived

You’ve heard about Generation X and Generation Y, but now you need to know about Generation Z. These individuals were born between 1995 and 2010, and many are likely to be seniors in college by the end of 2015. Generation Z workers will start to enter the workforce as interns and entry-level employees, and they are going to go fast. You may want to get in on the action by snatching up highly talented college seniors before competitors hire them.

Millennials Move Into Leadership Roles

The Millennials will now be moving into leadership positions. According to a study by Elance oDesk, 27 percent of Millennials already work in managerial positions, and in ten years that number will increase to 47 percent. But Millennials may not be adequately trained to handle the tasks. So, if you plan to promote Millennials into higher positions, start training them for their new roles in 2015.

Employees Treasure Honesty Most

Compensation and job security are both very important, but another emerging human resource trend in 2015 will be employees having a sense of loyalty to small businesses that are honest with them. An open-door policy and transparency will keep your employees from jumping ship and moving on to the competition. So, start sharing with your employees, discussing issues with them, and getting their input.

Retention Rates Drop

Due to the generational changes coming in 2015, small businesses will notice that it’s harder to retain their best talent. In fact, it’s estimated that 86 percent of employees will already be looking for a new position while they’re working in their current one. To keep your employees from doing the same, you need to create a culture that allows employees to create friendships, socialize, and feel attached to their job.

Social Media Becomes a Recruitment Medium

In 2014, social media was already becoming popular for recruitment, but this is a human resource trend that will increase in 2015. More small businesses will be using blog posts and social media updates to stand out and help them attract the top talent. In fact, it’s estimated that 58 percent of employees are more likely to apply to a company that uses social media. So, if your small business has yet to create a compelling social media presence, now is the time to do so.

There are many emerging human resource trends predicted for 2015. Most have to do with retention and attracting new talent. As a small business, you can remain competitive in 2015 just by understanding the different generations, working hard to attract the best employees and, of course, keeping your existing ones from searching for a new job.