What to expect in the new normal

Covid-19 has challenged some of the preconceived views on employee productivity in the office. With a large share of the global workforce successfully working from home, it’s brought into question the rigid office schedules and working policies most organisations are governed by.

So, what can we expect in the new normal? Based on findings from our global survey on the future of work, we discuss potential changes in three main areas of work.

The office

Some companies before Covid-19 were considered role models due to their innovative offices. Companies, especially in the tech field, seemed to find themselves in an office battle, trying to differentiate themselves by offering luxuries such as baristas, onsite gyms and game rooms.

What all these offices have in common, is that they are based on an open office plan. This layout allows for little space between workers. Some experts say that the open floor plan can be redesigned to ensure employees’ safety. Others say the pandemic is the final straw for the open office. Health risks aside, for those workers that feel more productive when working from home, a move away from open office plans could be beneficial.

However, it must be remembered that a remote working model and a more closed office style doesn’t suit all personality types or business models. Downsizing office space could be another workplace trend in the aftermath of Covid-19. 

Remote working 

Covid-19 launched the world’s largest remote working experiment. Traditional business processes and working practices evolved in a matter of days as employees transitioned to remote work. Business leaders’ biggest fear was a decrease in productivity, but 32% of professionals surveyed believed that their productivity remained stable, and 45% saw their output increase.

Considering these findings, businesses may have to re-evaluate their working models; indeed, 73% of businesses surveyed plan to allow more employees to work from home. Should organisations introduce more flexible working practices, then it is vital that guidelines and rules are established, as 56% of employees feel that current policies lack clarity. IT infrastructure is another area that requires change, as 30% of employees feel that their IT systems are not adequate for remote working.

Whilst greater working flexibility is here to stay, business leaders have been advised to proceed with caution, as many commentators emphasise the importance of face to face relationships and communication to workplace dynamics.

Leadership

Our survey shows that during the lockdown, 72% of managers were measuring their team’s productivity based on the volume of tasks completed. At the same time, 48% used the more traditional measure of hours worked. For remote working to be a success in the new world of work it is important that leaders can shift to a results-oriented mindset and use achieved goals as the barometer for success. For many organisations this can be challenging, as 59% of employers surveyed believe their senior leaders prefer more traditional ways of working.

COVID-19 has also highlighted the need for new skills among organisation leaders. Having empathy towards employees’ work-life balance and communication skills are areas in which leaders can actively improve in. Additionally, grasping a better understanding of technology for remote work and adopting a more top-down approach for increased collaboration are skills that will be essential for managers in the new world of work.