We all benefit from frontline workers. These are the friendly employees who take your coffee order, deliver your packages, check you in for your doctor’s appointment or ring up your groceries. Representing more than three-quarters of the global workforce today, frontline workers are indispensable to industries and individuals alike.
However, employers are struggling with high turnover and plunging job satisfaction from this demographic. Most of these employees say they don’t have the technical tools or training needed to excel at their current job. These front-of-house workers want solutions in the form of instant technology, such as AI, wearables, mobile apps and more. That is why automation is a top trend for frontline workers for the year 2025 and beyond.
Frontline workers are also looking for:
Flexibility: More gig and temp roles are being used to meet shortages in the workplace today and this trend will continue. Along with this trend comes more hybrid work as frontline workers who have the ability to work remotely seek these opportunities.
Upskilling: Workers want more opportunities to learn and grow and appreciate ongoing and updated training in new technologies and skills to further their knowledge and their careers. Likewise, they are interested in leadership development programs.
More AI: Frontline workers are fascinated by the power of artificial intelligence in action and want to engage with it more to help them do their jobs, develop new skills and meet customer requirements.
A focus on health and wellness: Mental health matters more than ever to workers of all stripes. Companies that take good care of their employees will be rewarded with dedication and longevity. Workplace safety and stress reduction are also critical. These programs can include health initiatives, crisis counseling and more.
DEI: Frontline workers are tired of being discriminated against by both customers and coworkers. They not only want more diverse executives and colleagues but also diverse training, decision-making and inclusive initiatives across the workplace.
The companies that get these initiatives right will excel in hiring – and keeping – the best committed frontline workers for 2025 and in the years to come.