The global workforce decreased by 4.15% in 2024, with a notable 15% drop in AI jobs, according to a report from workforce intelligence firm Aura. The US fared better, with a 7.2% decline in AI positions. Workforce reductions were largely due to spending cuts in major markets and declining labor participation, according to the report. Remote job listings fell by 20% as companies shifted back to in-office work.

Mod Op Chief People Officer Jean Kouremetis emphasizes the importance of continuous learning to improve talent acquisition and retention, particularly as the company adapts to AI and automation. "Additionally, we offer opportunities to work on cross-department client projects, allowing employees to expand their expertise, collaborate with new teams and keep things fresh," says Kouremetis, who adds the company also offers in-office, hybrid and remote work options.

Mass layoffs in 2023 and 2024 have left remaining employees facing increased workloads and job insecurity. Human resources can help by identifying skill gaps and providing training, which can boost morale, confidence and productivity.

"The great decide," a term describing the critical financial decisions Americans face as they approach retirement, is being hindered by a lack of confidence, research suggests. Nearly 70% of respondents to a survey from the Employee Benefit Research Institute and Greenwald Research cited economic uncertainty as a barrier to making significant financial moves.

Productive discussions begin with openness -- casting ego aside, examining ourselves and giving weight to other perspectives, Jeff Goins writes. This is especially true when trying to convince someone to take certain action, he says. "You have to be receptive to other people's ideas before they'll ever listen to yours. To change someone's mind, you have to be willing to change your own. Only then do you have any hope of winning someone over to your cause," Goins writes.