Future of Work: Understanding, Adapting and Anticipating

The “Future of Work” describes the rapid changes in working methods, influenced by new technologies, societal changes and the expectations of assets. 

Faced with these transformations, companies must adapt and remain competitive.

What is the “Future of Work”?

The “Future of Work” encompasses several aspects:

• Emerging technologies: artificial intelligence (AI), automation, big data, and virtual and augmented reality. In 2024, 60% of companies plan to increase their investments in AI and automation. By 2025, AI could automate up to 30% of common tasks in certain sectors;

• New work models: teleworking, hybrid work and coworking spaces… In 2023, around 48% of European employees were working in hybrid mode, combining telework and face-to-face work, so companies are reducing their real estate costs, investing in online collaboration tools and strengthening cybersecurity.

• Changing skills: the growing importance of digital skills, soft skills and continuing education. With the rapid evolution of technology, continuous learning is essential. It is estimated that 40% of employees’ core competencies will change by 2025. The «skills-based-companies» companies offer the opportunity to talents to diversify their career development and no longer be on a unique and ascending pattern. They promote agility, innovation and efficiency by allowing employees to work in a transversal and collaborative way, often in multidisciplinary teams focused on common projects or objectives. This approach aims to maximize the use of talent and respond quickly to changing market needs.

Cultural evolution: a focus on work-life balance, diversity and inclusion. Companies must adopt more flexible and decentralized structures, reinvent the Corporate Culture, adapt its HR policies.

Gig and Freelance Economy: the Gig economy is booming, with a growing number of workers opting for short and flexible missions. In 2023, more than 35% of the global workforce was involved in freelance work. In France, 1.3 million freelancers according to reports published by freelancing platforms and specialized market research. At the European level, there has been a significant increase to 11 million freelancers across the European Union. Companies need to rethink recruitment and talent management policies to include freelancers and gig economy workers, adapting their talent management policies and ensuring legal compliance to avoid CDI requalifications.

The “Future of Work” represents both a challenge and an opportunity for companies. By embracing new trends and investing in the technologies and skills of tomorrow, companies can not only survive but thrive in this new work environment. Those who take advantage of these changes will be better positioned to attract and retain the best talent, while increasing their competitiveness.