Greater flexibility is the key (Picture: Getty)

New year, new job?

The pandemic has forever changed the working world (even if we’re on the other side of it) bringing in the Great Resignation and an explosion of hybrid roles.

Next year it’s expected flexible working will be amped up even more, and that companies will need to work harder to appeal to prospective employees amid the cost of living crisis.

Careers expert Amanda Augustine, working for TopCV, says 2023 will bring lots of changes in the workplace – many of which will favour employee needs over the employer.

Here’s what she predicts for the year ahead.

Virtual interviews as standard

Businesses are choosing to only do in-person interviews for final rounds, new research shows, as it saves time and resources.

Amanda says: ‘While you may already feel comfortable using Zoom, it’s important to practise your virtual interview skills to avoid any major mistakes that could cost you the job.’

Remote work to stay

We won’t be going back to full-time office work.

Research by TopCV found work-from-home options were among the top three priorities of people job hunting.

Amanda recommends editing your CV to make it clear you want this, as it’s no longer out of the ordinary to expect flexibility when roles can be remote.

Demand for flexibility

Amanda says next year is a good time to ask for more flexibility.

‘Thanks to the successful four-day week, new government plans to change flexibility rights for employees, and a growing desire among workers to achieve greater work-life balance, you can expect to find more professionals seeking work flexibility in 2023,’ she says.

‘Employers wishing to attract and retain talent will explore more flexible working patterns for their workers such as flexitime, four-day weeks and job-share options, to name a few.’

Employers focus on diversity and inclusion

Amanda says: ‘As younger generations join the workforce, employers will feel pressured to implement programmes that support and celebrate a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion.’

Attitudes shift from generation to generation, so inclusivity is likely to be called more into question by prospective employees – and may be a dealbreaker for in-demand jobseekers.

Work perks

As the cost of living and inflation continue to cause financial worry, work benefits will need to improve.

Amanda says: ‘As we enter a new year with high inflation rates and economic uncertainty, companies and professionals alike will prioritise perks that offer the greatest financial benefit.

‘Luxury items such as gym memberships will make way for perks that offer greater financial assistance, such as healthcare and childcare vouchers.’

It’s about easing the burden workers are feeling rather than providing add-ons, which ideally will help them feel secure and ready to work without distraction.

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As the cost of living and inflation continue to cause financial worry, work benefits will need to improve.