The modern workforce is always evolving. However, future work dynamics for most Americans have been drastically impacted by major events in 2020. As businesses emerge out of the pandemic workforce productivity, creativity, collaboration, and engagement all take on a new meaning. With that, the way we hire and retain top talent is facing a slew of era-defining changes. To keep up with these changes, business leaders must rise to the occasion and show a deep understanding of the latest workplace trends.
The Importance of a Safe and Healthy Workplace
If you’re worried about employee performance and productivity, workplace environment is a major part of your success. Creating a healthy work environment can be a game-changer and coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic it will be top-of-mind for everyone entering the workplace. An unhealthy work environment can lead to higher turnover, absenteeism, high medical cover, and employee compensation.
If you’re taking care of your work environment, your employees feel like you are taking care of them. It boosts employee happiness, morale, and motivation– a win-win!
Remote Work is the New Buzzword
But it’s more than just a passing trend. Coming into 2020, the dominance of traditional office working was already under threat. After the pandemic, and rapid advancement of workplace technology, remote work is starting to hold the upper hand. When managed correctly, and with the right collaboration technology, remote work has a lot of benefits that will only boost employee performance at work:
Flexible scheduling
Greater work/home balance
Ability to travel more
Allowing time to fit in more exercise
Better options for parents to handle both parental and professional responsibilities
With these benefits in mind, it’s no surprise that majority of “office” employees would choose to work remote for the rest of their career.
The Need for the Right Technology
Business communication has come a long way, but certain technologies have always come with an ounce of resistance because, frankly, people stick to what they know. The pandemic changed that quickly, as all non-essential businesses were forced to work 100% from home. Many business leaders found, where they once feared a remote workforce, using communication and collaboration technology has taught them it’s possible, and in many cases, more effective. Tools that are on the rise include: centralized databases, video conferencing, and back-office/self-serve software.
Consider Alternative Employment Models
With the increase in remote working and flexible work schedules, “gig economy” is on the rise. More and more people are taking the route of self-employment, freelancer, or part-time consultant, to avoid the standard 9-to-5 employment and opt for a more flexible work schedule. These terms are evolving and taking advantage of them can be in your best interest.
Many companies are hiring expert consultants on a part-time basis, rather than invest in full-time employees. This can be for a one-off project, or to simply fill a talent gap as your company continues to grow. Companies, who typically would not have the financial muscle to attract top talent, now have access to them on a part-time basis. This type of employment has shifted in almost every role but has shown to be most effective in areas such as: financial guidance, marketing, IT support, engineering, and sales.
If you’re curious to learn more about the changing landscape for 2021, reach out to Per Se Group. Our team has the knowledge and technology in place to help keep your hiring and workforce needs right on track.