Editor’s Note

Just a couple more days to go and 2020 will be history. Living through the lockdowns, abrupt shifting to remote working, losing jobs, mental and emotional turmoil - the roller-coaster year has made the future look uncertain. Although we are entering a new year, the pandemic continues to impact all areas of our lives. However, despite all the turbulence, let us also be grateful for what we had and for the life lessons the pandemic taught us.

Coming to the world of work, we know that it will never be the same again. Organizations are trying to navigate these uncertain times – figuring out how to be more resilient and agile. As we look ahead, we see the future of work as borderless and fluid. With the ‘hybrid’ way of work fast catching up, leaders focusing on what really matters, gender equality and diversity gaining more importance than ever and innovation in great demand, working, living and thriving in the post-pandemic world will definitely be different from how it was before.

As we look ahead to 2021, the spotlight will continue to be on human resources teams, who are key to championing digital transformation efforts as they utilize innovative technology to drive successful and sustainable work environments. Eager to know the top HR trends for 2021 and beyond? This edition is all about that.

The cover story of this issue by Paul Burrin, Top HR Predictions For 2021, lists out a few trends that will shape HR in 2021. According to Paul, digital tools in HR will be vital for maintaining business resilience and sustainable working and AI analytics will play a crucial role in supporting a sustainable and effective work environment. Tom Haak’s, Top 11 HR Trends To Look Out For In 2021, also puts together a few HR trends to watch out for in the year ahead.

If you are interested in knowing what would work look like in 2035, check out Donna Kimmel's article that talks about 3 things HR leaders need to know to prepare for the future.

The most successful companies of tomorrow will be the ones that are focused today on improving the employee experience, which drives engagement, loyalty, and retention says Susan Tohyama in her article, The Future Of Work Is Here.

Before we get to the Great Reset and focus on our 2021 strategy, we need to take the time to recognize HR leaders and teams for the impeccable work they did in 2020. Chas Fields' article, When Was The Last Time You Thanked HR? is an open letter that takes us through the challenges that HR has helped us navigate amidst the crisis. 

In brief, this last edition of the year is all about what HR needs to be aware of while planning their future strategies. 

We hope you enjoy reading all the articles and get back to us with your valuable feedback and comments. 

Wishing you all success in the year ahead!