As the business world continues to rapidly evolve, it’s crucial for companies to stay current with the latest workplace trends in order to remain competitive and attract and retain the best talent. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top workplace trends that every business needs to be aware of.
- Remote work
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the trend towards remote work, with many companies shifting to remote work arrangements in order to comply with social distancing guidelines. Remote work has proven to be effective for many companies, with employees reporting increased productivity and better work-life balance. However, remote work also presents its own challenges, such as maintaining team cohesion and communication, and ensuring that employees have the necessary technology and equipment to work effectively from home. Businesses should consider the benefits and challenges of remote work and determine whether it is a viable option for their organization.
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced in May 2020 that the company will allow many employees to work from home permanently, with up to half of the company’s employees expected to work remotely within the next five to ten years. The company is also planning to establish remote hubs in areas where it doesn’t currently have an office.
- Flexibility
Employees today are looking for more flexibility in their work arrangements, whether it be in terms of hours, location, or work schedule. Employers who offer flexible work arrangements are better able to attract and retain top talent, and can also benefit from increased productivity and employee satisfaction. Businesses should consider implementing flexible work policies that allow employees to customize their work schedules to better fit their individual needs.
Kenyan company Twiga Foods has implemented a flexible work policy that allows its employees to work from home or the office, as well as flexible scheduling options. The company has also provided employees with laptops and internet connections to support remote work.
- Diversity and inclusion
Diversity and inclusion are becoming increasingly important in the workplace, with companies recognizing the benefits of having a diverse workforce that reflects the communities they serve. Businesses that prioritize diversity and inclusion are better able to attract and retain a wider range of talent and are more likely to have a better understanding of their customers and their needs. Companies should implement policies and programs that promote diversity and inclusion and should be proactive in addressing any instances of bias or discrimination in the workplace.
South African company Naspers has implemented diversity and inclusion initiatives, including a commitment to gender pay equity and a focus on hiring a diverse workforce. The company has also created an internal task force to drive diversity and inclusion efforts.
- Employee wellness
Employee wellness is becoming a top priority for many companies, as businesses recognize that healthy and happy employees are more productive and engaged. Companies are offering wellness programs that include everything from gym memberships to meditation sessions and are also prioritizing mental health and emotional well-being. Businesses should consider implementing employee wellness programs that address the unique needs of their workforce, and should also ensure that they are providing a safe and healthy work environment.
Google and Apple are two major companies that have recognized the importance of employee wellness in the workplace. Google has a program called “Search Inside Yourself” that focuses on mindfulness and emotional intelligence, while Apple offers its employees wellness programs and resources such as health coaching, nutrition classes, and fitness centers.
- Artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the workplace, with businesses using AI-powered tools to automate tasks, streamline processes, and make data-driven decisions. AI can help businesses save time and money, increase productivity, and improve accuracy and efficiency. However, there are also concerns about the impact of AI on jobs and the workforce, and businesses should be mindful of the potential risks and ethical considerations of implementing AI in the workplace.
An example of a Kenyan company that uses AI and machine learning to prevent fraud in its payment processing platform is Cellulant. Cellulant is a digital payments company that uses AI and machine learning algorithms to detect fraudulent transactions and prevent them from happening.
In addition to fraud prevention, Cellulant has also implemented a chatbot system to provide customer support. The chatbot, known as Mula, can assist customers with common queries and issues related to payments, such as checking account balances, making payments, and finding nearby agents for cash deposits or withdrawals. Mula uses natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning to understand customer requests and provide personalized responses.
- Upskilling and reskilling
As technology continues to advance and disrupt the workplace, employees need to continuously develop new skills in order to remain relevant and employable. Companies are recognizing the importance of upskilling and reskilling their employees, and are investing in training programs that help employees develop the skills they need to succeed in the future. Businesses should prioritize upskilling and reskilling programs that align with their strategic goals and the needs of their workforce.
PwC and IBM are two major companies that prioritize continuous learning and development for their employees. PwC offers a Digital Fitness app that allows employees to continuously develop their technology skills, as well as a program that provides financial support for employees to pursue professional certifications. IBM has a program called “Your Learning” that offers personalized learning plans, mentoring, and access to online learning resources.
- Sustainability
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the business world, as companies recognize the need to reduce their environmental footprint and operate in a more socially responsible manner. Businesses that prioritize sustainability are more likely to attract and retain customers who are looking for environmentally friendly products and services and are also better able to attract and retain employees who are passionate about sustainability. Companies should implement sustainability initiatives that align with their values and strategic goals, and should also be transparent about their environmental impact.
Woolworths, a South African company, has taken significant steps towards sustainability by setting four ambitious goals. By 2025, the company aims to achieve 100% green electricity and zero food waste to landfill. Furthermore, Woolworths plans to achieve net positive carbon emissions by 2050 and has committed to sourcing sustainable, locally-grown produce by partnering with local farmers. These initiatives not only demonstrate Woolworths’ commitment to reducing its environmental impact but also serve as an example for other companies to follow in pursuit of a more sustainable future.
In today’s ever-evolving business landscape, it’s crucial for companies to stay ahead of the curve by keeping up with the latest workplace trends. By embracing flexibility, diversity and inclusion, AI, continuous learning, and sustainability, businesses can not only attract and retain top talent but also drive innovation and growth. As we continue to navigate the changing workplace landscape, it’s important for companies to remain adaptable and forward-thinking in order to succeed in the long run.
