The Future of Work in 2024: Artificial Intelligence and the EX Recession

So, what’s the future of work as we catapult into 2024? The work landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, shaped by a rollercoaster economy and the unstoppable rise of artificial intelligence. Gone are the hopes of a ‘roaring 20s’ renaissance. Instead, we find ourselves navigating through a period that’s more of a wild digital west.

The EX Recession: A Reality Check for Employers

According to Forbes, the Employee Experience (EX) recession is the new normal. Companies, once champions of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), are now scaling back. Shockingly, organizational DEI investments are predicted to plummet from 33% in 2022 to a mere 20% in 2024. This shift towards superficial DEI efforts, like heritage days, leaves much regarding real, impactful change to be desired.

Employee Engagement and Culture: Sliding Downhill

Employee engagement and culture energy, once the heartbeat of workplaces, are on a downward spiral. Engagement drops from 41% to an anticipated 34%, and culture energy from 63% to 55%. The culprits? Everything from return-to-office mandates to compensation disputes.

AI in Recruiting: A Mix of Magic and Mayhem

Enter AI, the new wizard in the world of work. It’s transforming how we approach tasks with tools like Microsoft 365 Copilot or Google Duet. These AI-powered sidekicks promise to elevate productivity and drive growth, but there’s a catch. They’re also causing a bit of chaos in recruiting, leading to some bizarre outcomes. Picture this: a well-known company hiring a candidate who… doesn’t actually exist. Or a job offer for a position that’s purely fictional. It’s like a plot out of a sci-fi movie, but it’s the reality of our AI-infused job market.

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The Silver Lining: Opportunities Amidst Challenges

But let’s not dwell on the gloom. These tumultuous times also bring opportunities. Leaders who defy the EX recession and invest in mature EX programs can reap rewards like higher productivity, lower attrition rates, and a burst of creativity. Embracing AI in recruitment and skills intelligence can morph your workforce into a more adaptive and competent powerhouse.

So, as we step into 2024, it’s clear that the future of work is a blend of challenges and opportunities. The key? Navigating this new world with a blend of caution, creativity, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. Welcome to the future — it’s nothing like we expected, but everything we need to grow.

Still Nervous About It? 

Understanding and adapting to AI’s role becomes crucial. That’s where “How to Overcome AI Anxiety” enters the picture (download it for free with Audible’s trial month). This book isn’t just about understanding AI – it’s about mastering it. It aims to transform AI anxiety into AI proficiency, guiding readers through the intricacies of AI’s impact on jobs, society, and personal growth.

Whether you’re a professional navigating the changing job landscape, an artist exploring new mediums, or simply an individual curious about the future, this book is your key to unlocking the mysteries and potentials of AI.

Welcome to 2024 – the year AI becomes a tool and a transformative force in our lives.