4 Trends that will redefine the workplace in 2022 and beyond
Covid-19 has changed the business landscape and created a level playing field for employees and potential employers of labor. In this article, we look at five trends that will reshape the workplace in 2022 and beyond.
1. Remote/Hybrid is here to stay.
Pandemic lockdowns in 2020 have increased the popularity of remote/hybrid work options.
Microsoft, Apple, Adobe, Citigroup, and many other companies have already announced plans to use a hybrid approach. Meanwhile, companies like Twitter, Dropbox, and Amazon have gone completely remote, allowing their corporate employees to work from home indefinitely.
Employees who work remotely benefit from flexible working hours and no commute. Employers frequently see higher productivity levels from their employees and can reduce overhead costs especially office rental costs.
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The hybrid work model has gained traction, and experts predict that many businesses will transition to hybrid offices where employees work on-site at least once or twice a week.
Instead of wasting energy trying to force employees to return to more traditional work structures, smart organizations will spend their time developing guidelines for telecommuting.
2. Hours of Work Flexibility
Because of the popularity of remote culture, many employees now have the option of choosing their working schedule.
Workers can carve out routines that better suit their work styles because they are no longer restricted to regular office hours. Night owls or early risers can work when they are most focused and have fewer distractions.
The traditional 9-to-5 work structure is quickly becoming obsolete.
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3. Global Virtual Team
Many managers used Zoom for team building when coworkers couldn't meet in person due to the pandemic. However, as more offices become fully or partially remote, there is an increased demand for online team building. One of the fastest-growing remote work trends is virtual team building. A virtual team also has the advantage of accommodating a larger audience.
4. Employee Welfare
The global pandemic crisis has highlighted the importance of employee wellness initiatives. Workplace wellness trends are more important than ever before. Employees are more likely to prioritize self-care in the coming years, and employers are more likely to invest in programs that emphasize health and wellness.
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The nature of these wellness programs will change as work shifts to hybrid and remote models. Instead, companies may provide more credits toward gym memberships, home equipment, or healthy food prep services instead of office workout rooms and catered healthy lunches. There will also be more telehealth visits and online specialist consultations. In addition, to combat the isolation of remote work, employees may devote more time to social needs like setting up clubs and community volunteering.
