Work trends have undergone many changes since COVID-19 hit the world. Since March 2020, the way we work and view the world has contributed to the rise of new trends. Here are seven of the most evident trends that will shape the world of work in 2022 and beyond.
1. Hybrid work model: The transition to remote work forced by Covid-19 has proved that employees can be productive even when working outside the office. The flexibility and advantages that working from home gave to employees have become something they highly value and won’t give up. However, most companies are not ready to completely let go of the office, so, the hybrid work model will keep on representing the ideal compromise between employers’ and employees’ needs. In a recent survey conducted by Nexxt, 55% of job seekers said that they’re seeking remote opportunities.
2. Boosting engagement: Employees that work hybrid or remotely have fewer social and emotional connections with their workplace. Since most companies will continue to operate in a hybrid mode for now, developing programs that help foster company culture and maintain employees are connected and engaged is crucial.
3. Investments on technology: Digital transformations are affecting companies in all fields equally. In order to facilitate and implement these changes, companies must invest in appropriate technology and infrastructure, as well as in training employees to develop skills to handle these new tools.
4. Seeking talent from within: A cost-effective method to fill the “holes” is for companies to first look internally and provide current employees with the opportunity to move into different and/or higher roles. In addition, since many employees who recently left in hopes of finding better opportunities may soon realize that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side, this year we’ll likely see an increase in former employees’ returns aka boomerang employees. Hiring boomerang employees can be beneficial because of the experience gained during their time away and their prior connection to the organization.
5. Really caring for employees: Employees have always wanted to be heard and appreciated, and this year they’re even more determined to act on this desire. To boost retention, companies will seek to build a culture of authentic care towards the employees’ well-being and to provide plenty of opportunities for their career development.
6. Increase attention to diversity, equity, and inclusion: Covid-19 compelled employers to more carefully consider each worker’s different conditions and needs, and made them realize that in order for all employees to reach an equal outcome, specific resources and opportunities should be allocated based on employees’ different starting points, needs, and circumstances. This awareness cannot (and should not) be undone and companies that want to retain and satisfy their employees must keep on being attentive and sensitive to these values.
7. Re-imagining the role of managers: Increasingly sophisticated technology may soon substitute managers in performing several tasks (up to 65% of managers’ tasks has the potential to be automated by 2025). Instead of drastically cutting the number of managers, companies may want to reinvent their role: managers will act in the capacity of a mentor, helping employees grow within their careers and the organization. This change will empower managers by creating a stronger relationship between them and the employees.
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