The Covid-19 pandemic continues to evolve and reshape the existing work models and practices. A recent research from the Adecco Group reveals that 53% of employees prefer a hybrid work model with 82% reporting the same or more productivity as before. However, lack of connection seems to be a major pain point with only a third of executives feeling that they get recognised. 

Extended working hours have taken a toll and as a result workers and managers are demanding to be assessed on outcomes or results rather than hours of work. There is also some anxiety about returning to work with Australia topping the charts, closely followed by the UK and Canada.

This comprehensive global study, Resetting Normal: Defining the New Era of Work, examines how attitudes to work have evolved over the last 12 months. The study presents the challenges and issues that companies must manage to adapt to this period. 

In the same vein, Adecco Group's Chief Executive Officer, Alain Dehaze mentions the need to ramp up and modify existing work models, practices and policies in order to cope up with evolving businesses and the post-pandemic era. 

Hybrid Working - Remote working may or may not have a direct correlation to productivity

According to the statistics, 53% want to work in a flexible work culture and prefer hybrid work models over traditional models. With growing popularity and adaptability of the evolved work model, 71% have now a home set up that allows effective remote working. Adopting a hybrid work model has become a way to magnetize talents and enhance productivity. Also 82% believe that they are more or less similarly productive as compared to earlier. The research further suggests that technology and innovations make for an efficient remote or hybrid work model. Cloud infrastructures, cyber security, and digital transformation are key for a successful next normal. As a plus point, hybrid work can enable individuals with disabilities, parents with children to work from home.

Flexible work culture - ‘One size will not fit all’

Employees want to work smarter and not longer. Majority of employees require their employers to adopt a flexible approach in terms of place of work as well as working hours. Workers are revealing diverse experiences across different aspects of work including work culture, work engagement, relationships, etc. The research recommends businesses to build an output and impact centered, flexible work model ensuring a sustainable and engaging workplace for employees.

Mental Health- a challenge to leadership

Compared to a survey conducted the previous year, more employees are complaining of mental health issues and burnout. It is reported that 54% of young leaders are experiencing mental and physical health concerns, since 2020. Consequently, the majority of the managers and employees are facing non-co operation on their leader's part. Affirmative work space, coaching and resources for employers, use of cognitive techniques and adequate mental health support are the prime requirements for the next normal.

Reward and recognition - A significant discord between management expectations and leadership initiatives

74% of employees have witnessed the need for recognition, promotion and building of a strong workforce, with only 37% actually satisfied with their leaders' attempts to build a positive work atmosphere. Coaching and upskilling can aid leaders to better manage, listen and induce motivation among fellow employees, creating a positive and yielding workspace.

In order to cope up with the evolving nature of businesses and proper utilization of talents, companies need to modify and adopt a more flexible approach to keep the talents intact. Mental health, employee-well being, efficient leadership and consequent productivity remain the true pillars for the next normal.