Global Talent #40

Are CFOs the New HR Champions Amid Talent Shortages?

Maura Webber Sadovi | CFO Dive | May 7, 2025

In the face of a persistent finance and accounting talent shortage, CFOs are stepping up as key players in recruitment, according to Deloitte's Q1 2025 North American CFO Signals survey. Nearly 34% of finance leaders report deeper involvement in hiring, with some assuming roles akin to Chief Human Resources Officers within their departments. This shift is driven by their intimate understanding of departmental needs and the urgent necessity to secure the right talent. Additionally, CFOs are leveraging cross-departmental hires and external HR firms to bridge gaps. The talent crunch is compounded by a shrinking CPA pipeline, leading to legislative shifts in at least 11 states to ease licensure requirements. Technology is also a game-changer, with 79% of CFOs eyeing generative AI to mitigate skills shortages. However, resistance to new tech poses a challenge, alongside concerns about overburdened staff and potential credibility risks with stakeholders.

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How Does Remote Work Solve the ‘Two-Body Problem’ for Modern Couples?

Ryan Hogg | Fortune | May 13, 2025

Stripe’s co-founders, Patrick and John Collison, argue that remote work offers a compelling solution to the long-standing "two-body problem" - a challenge faced by working couples who struggle to align their careers geographically. The Collison brothers criticized rigid return-to-office policies, like JPMorgan Chase’s, suggesting they cater to underperformers rather than top talent. They highlighted how remote work expands the talent pool, enabling couples to pursue high-level careers without being confined to specific locations. For example, one partner might have to work at a hospital in Idaho, while the other can maintain a tech job remotely. They also linked remote work to broader economic benefits, like improved allocative efficiency and productivity. Ultimately, Stripe champions flexibility, maintaining a significant portion of its workforce remotely.

Is Remote Work Truly Making Us Happier?

Kevin Williams | Quartz | May 16, 2025

A recent Gallup survey reveals a paradox in remote work dynamics. While fully remote employees report higher engagement at work (31%) compared to hybrid (23%) and fully on-site workers (19%), their overall well-being lags. Hybrid and on-site workers with remote flexibility tend to thrive more, whereas fully on-site employees without such options feel the least satisfied. Clark Lowe from The O'Connor Group attributes this to leadership gaps, suggesting that autonomy without structure leads to burnout. Effective remote work thrives on intentional leadership, regular check-ins, and clear goals. An expert highlights "intentional flexibility" as vital, balancing work with personal commitments like family events. The survey underscores that remote work isn’t inherently flawed; it’s the leadership and structure that determine its success, revealing the complex relationship between work engagement and personal well-being.

How Can Gamification Transform Employee Development in the Modern Workplace?

Marisa Pereira | Staffing Industry Analysts | May 15, 2025

In today’s dynamic work environment, especially with hybrid and remote models, maintaining employee engagement in learning and development is a growing challenge. Gamification - integrating game-like elements such as points, progress tracking, and challenges, offers a compelling solution. It taps into fundamental human motivators like achievement, recognition, and growth, turning learning from a chore into an engaging, choice-driven experience. Storyblok’s approach showcases how simple tactics, like "leveling up" through skill acquisition and team quests, foster collaboration and innovation. Cross-department competitions not only strengthen inter-team relationships but also promote shared successes. Additionally, gamified content - interactive workshops and scenario-based modules - boosts participation and retention. The key to effectiveness lies in personalization, authentic recognition, and seamless integration into existing platforms. Ultimately, gamification isn’t about making work a game; it’s about humanizing development, enhancing retention, and fostering a culture of continuous growth.

What Defines an Effective Hybrid Work Model Today?

HBR IdeaCast Podcast | April 1, 2025

Harvard Business School's Raj Choudhury dissects the evolving dynamics of hybrid work post-pandemic. Choudhury argues that the hybrid work debate isn't simply about choosing between remote and in-office setups. Instead, effectiveness hinges on team-specific strategies, considering project phases, team locations, and management practices. His research highlights stable remote work rates at 25% compared to 5% pre-pandemic, countering narratives pushing for full office returns. Choudhury identifies key hybrid models: weekly, monthly, and quarterly, each suited to different operational needs. He emphasizes addressing challenges like isolation, communication gaps, and socialization deficits, proposing solutions like virtual water coolers, knowledge codification, and asynchronous communication. The study underscores flexibility, tailored approaches, and the integration of innovative management practices as essential to thriving in hybrid environments.