World’s First Job Guarantee Trial: TOP 5 Trends From The World Of Work

What else matters this week?

The metaverse will stir up software development in 2023.

EU to allow calls on flights.

Keeping the 1.5C warming target.

Is working slow slowly working?

No one comes to the office on Monday. Here’s what you can do about it.

We’ve got a full breakdown of all the top headlines you can’t miss this week.

#1. Despite economic downturn, hiring stays up.   

Amid recent layoffs and an economic downturn, some companies are actively hiring and trying to retain workers. It’s what Bloomberg calls a “job-market riddle.” Companies are hoarding talent in case the upcoming recession leads to labor shortages and shrinking talent pools. Global unemployment will likely rise over the next two years, but companies may try to attract and retain talent in anticipation of better times. Read more at Bloomberg.

#2. Real wages fall 2.4% in the EU

European workers saw their real wages fall by 2.4% in the first half of 2022, according to the International Labour Organization (ILO). The war in Ukraine, ensuing energy crisis, and more drove a fall in purchasing power. However, this is the first time since the financial crash of 2008 that real wage growth has been negative. Read more here.

#3. Metaverse for offices?

Office camaraderie is in short supply these days… But from the comfort of your own home. Startups and virtual communications companies are thinking about how to connect workers in a more virtual world. One startup, for example, is setting up a virtual office platform where employees can pop in and catch up all day. The end goal? Elevate employee engagement. Read more here.

#4. World’s first job guarantee trial a success.

In Austria, the world’s first job guarantee trial has helped eliminate long-term unemployment. The pilot programme was designed by Oxford University economists for a Lower Austria municipality, Marienthal. The program launched in 2020 and offered residents unconditional and well-paid work for more than 12 months. The results found that participants were happier, more financially secure and more engaged with their community. Read more here.

#5. Taking a short flight? Take the train, KLM CEO says.

In France, new rules go into effect soon which ban short-haul domestic flights when a decent rail alternative exists. The CEO of KLM, an Air France partner, is speaking out asking to take things a step further. CEO Marjan Rintel encourages passengers to take the train instead of flying on short-distance journeys to help cut carbon emissions.

“The train is not a competitor,” Rintel said. “We need to work together.” Read more here.