Reshaping Work - Rethinking How & Why We Work
Remote, Hybrid, and Flexible Work
Challenging traditional norms, remote, hybrid, and flexible work options are here to stay. At the same time, the debate on its value is a polarizing tug-of-war. Companies are exploring different solutions to meet employee needs and expectations while balancing the need to create engaging, collaborative, and productive cultures.
Remote Work
For employees, the focus on flexibility and ability to work remotely is gaining momentum. In fact, a recent report by USA Today indicates that employees are willing to forgo up to $6,000 in annual salary?for the privilege of working from home. Employers also recognize the benefits of remote workers including access to a broader talent pool and increased productivity, depending on who you talk to. Related to productivity, companies must assess a candidate’s ability to thrive in a remote work environment. Companies also need to offer competitive remote packages to attract the best talent.
Remote work is a core operational component for many companies, making a complete return to the office challenging. Factors such as employee preferences, technology investments, industry-specific needs, and real estate investments impact the decision and cost-effectiveness of this transition.
Hybrid Work
The hybrid work model which balances remote and in-office work, may create a balanced and agile work environment, addressing diverse employee preferences while simultaneously enhancing operational efficiency. Of course, employees need to live near work to participate in hybrid work.
Flexible Work
Flexible work arrangements reflect the changing expectations of employees. Many are seeking autonomy and freedom to balance work with their individual situations.? Employees with strong work-life balance, who feel more trusted, empowered, and in control are proven to be more motivated and healthier. They are also less likely to leave their jobs. This trend provides a more human-centric approach to professional engagement.
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A Way Forward
There is not a one-size-fits all solution to how we work. Removing the option for remote, hybrid, or flexible work will challenge employers’ ability to hire and retain top talent successfully. Those that enable a variety of work models will remain attractive to top-tier employees, while those that don’t might be forced to revisit and reconsider policies limiting varies types of work. Current trends are leading to individualized solutions which offer a variety of options, and it can serve as a compelling job perk.
Companies must be clear, consistent, and transparent around the intentions and impact of the return to office mandates to ensure they don’t affect employee sentiment and trust and ultimately lead to a brain drain. Companies must also understand what is uniquely important to each employee to move forward in an ever-changing world. At the same time, as companies engage in the work model tug-of-war, results-oriented cultures and redefining performance metrics are key.
The evolution of how we work is shaping a broader societal shift, urging us to rethink not just the way we work but also why we work.
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About the Author
Paula Norbom is the Founder and CEO of Talencio, an executive search and staffing firm serving health technology companies. She has worked in the health technology space for nearly 30 years.
Business Administrator
3 个月Great insight. I often wonder how things would have progressed if COVID hadn't introduced the remote work environment. It's certainly an ever-evolving situation for employers.
Marketing Specialist & Student at Arizona State University - New American University Scholar
4 个月Very insightful article! Remote and flexible work is a constantly evolving concept. It's interesting to see how organizations are adapting, offering employees more autonomy while still encouraging creativity and work culture.
Executive Branding Expert and Keynote Speaker ?? : Crafting Impactful Profiles, Navigating Career Transitions, and Boosting Online Credibility—For C-Suite and Senior Leaders Ready to Shine
4 个月Thank you, Paula Norbom and Talencio, for this thoughtful article. Since 2020, the job of HR professionals has become much harder, as there are more variables to consider. Where the employee would prefer to work, and how that might be accommodated, at least in part, is undoubtedly high on the list of things to be renegotiated.