What are the staffing trends in 2022?

For most businesses, the last few years have proved to be difficult to say the least. Everyone has been stretched to the limit, both physically and mentally. While it feels like we are flying through the first quarter of 2022, it’s never too late to take stock and look at what the year holds in regard to staffing trends. In general, there is a strong push towards staffing needs, including hiring, flexible working hours and mental health and wellbeing. Working in unprecedented times, means looking out for one another.

Increased Staffing

 Even with a pandemic bearing down on us, in the last three years, the number of small business taking on new staff has increased by over 14%, varying from full time to part time and casual staff. This is a good indication that businesses are still growing. If you are hiring new staff, make sure you are up to date with all the current government regulations. The Australian government business website has a great checklist which can help you through the process.

Flexible Work Arrangements

 Since 2020, the face of the work environment has changed emmensely, and we’ve seen a big push towards home office. While this change has been mandatory in some industries, many Australian workers have embraced the change with a more sustainable work-life balance.

 From August 2021, 36% of employees have agreed to work more flexible hours and 41% are now working regularly from home. This trend is expected to continue into 2022, and it is great to see Australian businesses moving to a more flexible work model. Talk to your staff and find out what model suits them best. There’s a range of flexible work options, which can include working earlier or later in the day, working longer daily hours, to create a four day week or reducing to part time work.

Mental health and wellbeing

 In these difficult times, many of us are on boarding a greater mental load, be it family or work related. It’s important to make sure all staff have the appropriate level of support. Some of the warning signs of stress among staff can include anxiety, muscle tension, frequent headaches, irritability and insomnia. As an employer, you can support staff by ensuring there’s open communication between all staff and have regular catch ups with individual employees. Make sure staff know where they can get the support they need and encourage flexible working arrangements.