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Description

Economic volatility, AI, and evolving employee expectations are reshaping the way organisations operate. HR leaders are tasked with not just responding to these challenges but also proactively shaping the future of work, ensuring that their organisations remain resilient and competitive in an ever-evolving environment.

Join Mark Philips, Head of Consulting, Mercer Workforce Solutions, as he moderates a discussion with other Mercer leaders on how HR can tackle these challenges and transform disruption into opportunity. Together, they will explore three critical strategies that organisations must prioritise: enhancing employee experience, fostering continuous skills development, and leveraging HR technology.

Listen to the conversation or jump directly to the relevant segments using the timestamps provided: 

Speaker: Emma Webb, Senior Associate

  • The emergence of five generations in the workplace has transformed the employment contract. Understanding and addressing the unique needs of each generation is essential for organisations seeking to attract and retain top talent in today's competitive landscape.
  • As we navigate through uncertain times, the foundation of trust in organisations has never been more critical. Employees who feel valued and heard are not just more engaged; they are more likely to thrive, making effective employee listening a strategic imperative.
  • HR leaders must actively listen to employee feedback and translate it into action planning, in addition to being transparent about the challenges that the organisation must overcome.

Speaker: Cynthia Cottrell, Partner, Mercer Workforce Solutions leader

  • The future of work is not defined by rigid job descriptions, but by a fluid understanding of skills. Embracing a skills-first approach allows organisations to tap into the diverse capabilities of their employees.
  • Organisations that prioritise internal mobility and skills development are not just adapting; they are thriving. By investing in their existing workforce, they unlock potential and drive performance in ways that traditional talent practices cannot.
  • The ability to redesign work around skills rather than roles is paramount. This shift not only enhances productivity but also empowers employees to engage in meaningful work that aligns with their passions and strengths.

Speaker: David Gazzarotto, Senior Principal, ANZ Leader, Digital HR Strategy

  • The integration of technology into HR practices is no longer optional; it is a necessity. Effective use of HR technology can streamline processes, enhance decision-making, and free up valuable resources for strategic initiatives.
  • The role of HR is transforming from stewards of employment to stewards of work and humanity. In an era defined by rapid change and technological advancement, HR must not only manage the logistics of employment but also drive meaningful connections between people, their work and technology.
  • Ultimately, HR's mission is to reshape work in a way that builds a better society, ensuring that every individual can thrive in their career journey.

  • How can organisations effectively bridge the gap between employee expectations and their capacity to deliver on those requests?
  • Once organisations meet employee expectations, what strategies can be implemented to celebrate these achievements and demonstrate that employee feedback has been valued and acted upon?
  • How can organisations create a holistic yet differentiated employee experience and EVP that effectively attracts, engages, and retains a diverse workforce comprising five generations?
  • How can organisations adapt their skills development strategies to support lateral career progression?
  • How can organisations address the mindset challenges among leaders, particularly Gen X, to facilitate the transition to AI-enabled work?

Host and guests

    Making Work 'Work'

    In our podcast, Mercer thought leaders, industry experts and business visionaries share big ideas and best practices to help you transform your organisation, build great workplaces and shape a more equitable and sustainable future – a future where work ‘works’ for everyone.
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