While it’s easy to play Monday morning quarterback, there’s much to be learned about the future by reviewing past actions and trends. Consider these three trends that were just evolving in 2010 and what leaders were saying about them then:
- Social media. Facebook and other social media platforms were just starting out, and most business leaders saw them as just for fun. Few saw these as an opportunity to expand their reach to potential employees. According to one study at the time, only 28% of executives/managers said their company would use social networking tools to tap in the global talent pool over the next decade.
- Focus on engagement/culture. HR professionals were urged back in 2010 “crank up the retention machine,” and more companies were starting to focus on improving employee benefits. However, they have moved from ping pong tables and free coffee to more sophisticated benefits, such as student loan repayment, flexible schedules, remote work, career development, and personal wellness.
- Structural change. The Great Recession forced businesses to think more efficiently and consider the role of automation and outsourcing. The move to more contract workers and freelancers was just starting. Today, more companies than ever use consultants and virtual workers as a mainstay of or supplement to their workforce.
