6 Trends CEOs must pay attention to

Regardless of your position in your organisation, possessing a solid and confident mindset that drives success, accomplishment, and leadership comprises a ‘CEO mindset’. However, according to research by ICAEW (2022), 40% of new CEOs fail to live up to their employers’ expectations eighteen months after being appointed. To achieve success, leaders need to be agile, resilient, self-aware, determined, driven and committed to flourishing in the current economic environment.

If you want to know what it takes to lead over the next decade, you need to keep up with the trends shaping the future of leadership. Research by The Future Leader highlights six trends implemented today that will continue to play a significant role in shaping future leaders over the next decade and beyond.

1. AI and Technology

The most significant trend impacting leadership is the evolution and integration of artificial intelligence and technology into business operations. According to the World Economic Forum report, the global workforce is undergoing a massive technological shift, where by 2025, nearly a third of the most basic skill sets will be comprised of technology skills not yet considered imperative to jobs today.

However, with the excitement of AI and new technology comes uncertainty. Leaders need to calm fears and remain optimistic about new technology by learning about AI to help others understand the positive impact of how it can support them in the workplace. It’s up to leaders to look for ways to implement AI into their business operations to improve employee efficiency instead of replacing talent.

Leaders will succeed in the digital era only if they engage with enthusiasm and welcome the ideas and opportunities that digital tools, data analysis, and new technologies bring.

2. Pace of Change

How we live and work is drastically different compared to five years ago. Change is constant and is happening at a rapid rate. As a result, disruption can come from anywhere and any size company. Leaders must constantly look ahead and embrace change in their company culture, product innovation and customer experience to challenge the status quo and succeed in this transformative era.

3. Company Culture

While companies used to be able to easily attract top talent with the promise of a high salary, free lunch and commuting stipends, that’s no longer the case. Despite the headlines of massive layoffs in the tech industry, the job market is still hot. Of course, pay is essential for most people—but in the current environment, companies need to find new ways to distinguish themselves as an employer of choice. The opportunity to work from home tops the list of priorities for most candidates with remote-capable jobs. According to CPA (2023), studies have shown that remote work improves engagement and boosts productivity—despite many bosses placing a high value on getting employees back to the office. Companies are redesigning the work environment to build in proactive rest that prevents burnout rather than responding to it after it happens. Employees prefer to work for organisations that invest in their employees, offer purpose, drive innovation and make a difference in the world. To set the example, leaders must first understand their own purpose, impact, and meaning before getting to know employees individually to understand what motivates them.

4. New Talent Landscape

The new talent landscape is more than just changing demographics; it’s a new approach to attracting and retaining talent while also training and upskilling employees. Future leaders should strive to develop diverse teams and create an inclusive environment by involving all employees to take control of their career development.

5. Morality, Ethics, and Transparency

A recent push for morality, ethics, and transparency has led business leaders to be more authentic, humble, and transparent in their leadership skills. As per Deloitte Global Human Capital, 80 percent of business and HR leaders consider leadership a top priority.

Hence, CEOs can use digital platforms to communicate their transparency about recent decisions and engage with employees, stakeholders, and customers. Companies with ethical foundations perform better financially and have higher customer and employee satisfaction. Engaged employees are more committed to the company’s vision. They feel vested in the mission of the organisation. As per Harvard Business School Review, Transparency is the new leadership need for today's workforce.

6. Digital Globalization

Through digital presence, most businesses have become global and have the potential to gain worldwide employees and customers. Future leaders must embrace globalisation and pay attention to what is happening worldwide. As technology grows, the world becomes more connected and brings excellent opportunities to collaborate and share cultures.

In summary, future-ready leaders need to understand trends and adapt their leadership approach to changes in how we think, work, and live. These six trends will be crucial for leaders over the next decade and beyond.

The question is, what are you doing to prepare yourself and your organisation to face them? For more information on how to set up your digital communication strategy, contact me and let's chat!