The COVID-19 pandemic fundamentally reshaped the world of work, prompting a long-overdue reexamination of talent strategies and workforce management. As HR executives navigate this evolving landscape, it’s essential to look beyond immediate hiring tactics and adopt a strategic, future-proof approach.

Drawing on insights from Deel’s latest Global Hiring Report—which captures data from over 1 million contracts and 35,000+ company partnerships—this article outlines a blueprint for building a resilient, adaptable workforce for the years ahead.

The changing face of work

Deel’s expansive dataset offers a unique, global perspective on emerging employment trends. Here are four key trends backed by compelling numbers:

Gen Z’s emergence as desirable employees

In 2024, Gen Z experienced the fastest salary growth at 9%, and they recorded the lowest rate of involuntary terminations compared to other generations.

Gen Z is not merely entering the workforce—they are redefining it. Their digital proficiency and strong desire for continuous learning demand that organizations modernize traditional HR practices. Their expectations for technology-driven environments and progressive career development are reshaping employee value propositions.

A shift toward domestic talent

Despite the continued rise of remote work—with 82% of workers on Deel’s platform operating remotely—there’s been a significant uptick in domestic hiring (hiring within the same country). In 2024, local (or region-specific) hires surged by 104% compared to a 42% increase for cross-border hires.

While remote work continues to break geographical barriers, the recent uptick in domestic hiring signals a nuanced shift. Companies are increasingly balancing global talent with local expertise, seeking the operational advantages of proximity without abandoning the benefits of a distributed workforce.

The rise of the accountant

Once dominated by software engineers, hiring accountants has seen a remarkable turnaround. In 2024, the demand for accountants grew by 74%, with salaries increasing by 15%—figures that outpaced even some of the most competitive tech roles.

Historically, software engineers have been at the forefront of competitive hiring. However, today’s global expansion and complex compliance needs have turned the spotlight onto accountants. Their specialized skillset is becoming indispensable, making them a prized asset in modern organizations.

A focus on workforce stability

Recent trends show a significant stabilization in workforce dynamics. Termination rates, which peaked at 72% in some regions in 2023, have since declined. Additionally, voluntary quits dropped from 3% to 2% over the past two years, indicating that employees are seeking longer-term stability.

Lower termination rates and reduced voluntary quits suggest that employees prioritize stability in an uncertain economic climate. This trend invites HR leaders to look beyond recruitment and invest in strategies that foster long-term employee engagement and retention.

Strategic workforce planning for 2025 and beyond

To truly future-proof your organization, consider these strategic imperatives:

Embrace a hybrid talent model

Design a workforce strategy that blends global and local talent. While digital nomads and remote workers provide invaluable flexibility, localized teams can enhance collaboration and cultural cohesion. Striking the right balance is key to operational success.

Invest in technology and continuous learning

With Gen Z’s digital fluency setting new benchmarks, organizations must invest in technology platforms that support remote work, data analytics and AI-driven talent management.

Simultaneously, create robust learning and development programs that prepare employees for future challenges.

Redesign compensation and retention programs

The evolving market demands innovative compensation strategies. Moving beyond traditional salary models to performance-based rewards can drive engagement and retention. Additionally, targeted incentives for high-demand roles—like accounting—will ensure you remain competitive in a tight labor market.

Leverage data for strategic insights

Utilize analytics to monitor workforce trends and adjust your strategies in real time. Data-driven decision-making can uncover opportunities for cost optimization, talent development, and enhanced employee satisfaction.

Partnering with Deel for a future-proof strategy

The post-pandemic work environment requires HR leaders to think strategically and embrace transformative change. Future-proof your workforce by investing in technology, refining your compensation strategies and partnering with forward-thinking platforms like Deel.

Deel isn’t just a payroll and compliance platform—it’s a strategic partner that will help you navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing global workforce. Here’s how partnering with Deel can transform your HR strategy:

• Streamlined global and local hiring: Whether onboarding talent across borders or focusing on domestic hires, Deel’s platform simplifies compliance, payroll and benefits management—allowing you to maintain agility and consistency in your hiring practices.
• Advanced analytics and insights: Gain real-time visibility into your workforce trends with Deel’s data-driven tools. Understand the dynamics of your talent pool and make informed strategic decisions that align with future market demands.
• Enhanced retention strategies: With a comprehensive view of your compensation, performance and engagement data, you can design retention programs that keep your workforce motivated and aligned with long-term business objectives.

Get in touch with our experts to learn more about Deel.