In 2020, the future of work has become one of the hottest topics in the tech industry. With AI, machine learning and chatbots drastically changing workplace norms, it’s an area that hits home for all of us and raises several compelling questions.

How will technology change the way we work day-to-day? What types of robots or forms of AI will become our co-working norms? How will emerging tech change our current roles and career growth opportunities? And what are the changing expectations of the new generation of workers?

The arrival of a new decade gives us fresh opportunity to reflect on the future of work. I think the opportunities for HR are endless -- but here are my top 5 predictions for what we'll see in the future of work 2020:

1. The adoption of conversational user interface will accelerate in the workplace: At Oracle, we envision a world where employees can get their work done without ever needing to log in to their software – they can work entirely by voice or text. In 2020, we’ll see new advancements in digital assistants and chatbots that will make this future a reality. These technologies will create a conversational experience for both employees and managers, enabling teams to work anywhere, anytime and through any device.
2. AI will simplify experiences for HR teams: The role of AI and automation has often only focused on self-service transactions for employees and managers. But HR teams’ work is both tedious and difficult, like tasks around compliance that require multiple forms and policies, but leave no room for error. In 2020, we’ll see machine learning-driven technology simplify the experience not only for employees and manager, but also for HR professionals, freeing up time spent on menial tasks to take more strategic and creative approaches to their role. For example, tools like Oracle Advanced HCM Control and Oracle HCM Experience Design Studio will assist HR teams in simplifying traditionally complex tasks, such as safeguarding data security and configuring business process, allowing them to implement changes without having to rely on IT. Where are jobs headed in 2020? Oracle SVP Emily He offers her vision on the future.

3. We’ll begin to see the rise of “superjobs”: In its 2019 Human Capital Trends report, Deloitte introduced “superjobs” – roles that are being reimagined to accomodate AI and robotics. Superjobs change the skills required of staff, even changing the nature of work and the job itself. In 2020, I believe we’ll begin to see this concept reach critical mass. Automation will push employees and managers to develop new offerings, services and aspects of their role to become more strategic and remain relevant. In essence, we will all begin to automate our own jobs and advance our current roles to deliver higher level value.
4. Career mobility will improve inside-out: As emerging technologies continue to revolutionize roles, the job market is becoming increasingly more competitive – which in turn puts heightened importance on career mobility both inside and outside an organization. In 2020, companies that want to remain competitive will need to invest further in providing strong internal mobility for their employees, or risk losing them to competitors that do. Tools like Connections in Oracle HCM Cloud provide more visibility and transparency into the skillsets within an organization, and allow employees to build their personal brand, find their own tribes, and identify growth opportunities without leaving.
5. Gen Z will introduce new workplace demands: As a new generation enters the workforce, companies will need to adapt to new workplace demands. Gen Z workers are conditioned to a gig economy-type working style, so they have expectations for flexible and on-demand work – while continuously looking for real-time feedback. Organizations will need to implement new learning and reskilling programs for this cohort, and determine appropriate strategies to manage a gig-minded workforce that is used to working multiple jobs on their own time.

Technology will continue to have a profound impact on the way we work, the expectations we have for employers and the type of experience we come to expect at work. As we enter a new year and a new decade, we can expect the momentum to continue. Technology will lead us into a new, conversational, experience-driven future of work – and we’re ready for it!

Emily He,

Oracle