Empowering Deskless Workers in SA: Insights from our discussion on the future of frontline work

Deskless workers make up over 80% of the global workforce, forming the backbone of industries such as healthcare, retail, construction, and logistics. Despite their critical role, they are often overlooked in workplace innovation and support initiatives.?

We recently hosted a live discussion inspired by the findings of our Deskless Worker Pulse, a report that dives into the realities of deskless workers in South Africa. This comprehensive report highlights the challenges and opportunities facing this vital segment of the workforce, setting the stage for actionable insights.

On the panel was Caroline van der Merwe , Jem’s Chief Product Officer and co-founder, who shared her expertise in developing technology-driven solutions for deskless workers. Lukhona Sitole , Managing Director of Prosec Security, provided a unique perspective on the demanding nature of roles in the security sector. The discussion was hosted by Matt Brownell , a seasoned fractional Chief Marketing Officer with a passion for driving meaningful change.?

??Watch the full conversation here, or read further for the key takeaways.?

Challenges Facing Deskless Workers

The panel shed light on several key challenges that deskless workers encounter daily:

Limited Access to Technology

“Without the right digital tools, these workers are left disconnected, impacting their ability to perform and feel part of the team.” - Caroline van der Merwe.

A lack of reliable tools and platforms makes it difficult for many deskless workers to stay connected and collaborate effectively. Caroline van der Merwe noted,?

Skills Development

Limited access to training and professional development opportunities hinders career growth for many workers, especially in sectors reliant on manual labor or entry-level skills.

Work-Life Balance

Long hours and physically demanding schedules can make it difficult for workers to maintain a healthy balance between their personal and professional lives, with many in industries such as mining and agriculture reporting high stress levels.?

“In security, the demands of long shifts mean that balancing work and personal life can feel almost impossible for many.” - Lukhona Sitole?

Recognition and Inclusion

Deskless workers in South Africa frequently feel undervalued and excluded from decision-making processes, a gap that impacts morale and productivity. Recognition isn’t just about a paycheck, it’s about making people feel seen and valued for their contributions.

Strategies for Empowering Deskless Workers

During the discussion, panelists shared actionable strategies to address these challenges and support deskless teams:

1. Adopt Mobile-Friendly Technology

Equipping workers with accessible tools can improve communication, boost efficiency, and foster a sense of connection. It's crucial to meet people where they are –?communicating via WhatsApp is far more effective than trying to force employees to download new apps.

“Mobile technology is a game-changer. It’s about bringing the workplace to the worker, wherever they are.” - Caroline van der Merwe

2. Listen and Act

Open feedback channels ensure that workers feel heard and valued, which can inspire innovation and build loyalty across industries. When workers know their voices matter, it transforms the way they engage with their roles and the organisation.

3. Prioritise Wellbeing

“Wellbeing initiatives show workers that their employers genuinely care about their lives beyond the job.” - Lukhona Sitole

Flexible schedules, mental health resources, and ergonomic improvements can significantly enhance worker satisfaction and productivity, especially in industries with high physical demands.

4. Invest in Skills

Providing accessible training and development opportunities is critical to uplifting South Africa’s workforce, particularly in sectors where upskilling can lead to meaningful career advancements.

5. Celebrate Contributions

Recognising the hard work and impact of deskless teams through consistent acknowledgment fosters a positive work culture and enhances employee retention

Driving Change for Deskless Teams

The discussion underscored the growing recognition of deskless workers as essential contributors to organisational success. By addressing their unique needs and creating opportunities for growth, businesses can cultivate a more inclusive, motivated, and productive workforce.

At Jem, we are passionate about championing South Africa’s deskless workers by developing solutions that empower them to thrive. Thank you to everyone who joined the conversation—together, we can drive meaningful change for this vital segment of the workforce.

Missed the live session? Watch the full discussion here.