The implications of employee benefits, the changing nature of work, and what businesses should consider
The world of work has undergone a seismic shift in recent years, driven by evolving workforce demographics, changing employee expectations, and the profound impact of global events like the COVID-19 pandemic.
These transformative changes were the focus of discussion at the Old Mutual Thought Leaders Forum, where industry experts gathered to explore "Leading the Future of Work."
At the heart of the conversation was Linda Sebesho, the Managing Director of Remchannel, who shared her insights on the rapidly evolving landscape of work.
"We didn't waste the COVID crisis,"
Sebesho remarked, highlighting the significant advancements organizations have made in embracing flexible work arrangements.
Watch the full interview with Old Mutual Corporate's Managing Director of Remchannel, Lindiwe Sebesho....
One such innovation is the concept of "Chrono working," which allows employees to align their work schedules with their natural body clocks. "If I'm a morning person, then rather have me in the morning than in the evening," Sebesho explained, emphasizing the importance of creating an environment where people can be at their most productive.
The shift towards remote and hybrid work models has also had a profound impact, reducing the need for unnecessary in-person meetings and enabling a greater work-life integration. However, Sebesho acknowledged the challenges posed by traditionalist managers who prefer to see "bums on the seat" rather than focusing on outcomes.
"We don't want people to be commuting just to compute,"
Sebesho stressed, underscoring the need for companies to help managers embrace the new ways of working. This includes shifting the focus from time spent in the office to the actual delivery of work, a critical aspect of the future of work.
Beyond just performance, Sebesho highlighted the broader aspects of work, such as organizational culture, relationships, and career advocacy – elements that can be more challenging to nurture in the new work landscape. The solution, she suggested, lies in a hybrid approach that balances remote work with in-person collaboration, especially for younger or newer employees.
As the world of work continues to evolve, the insights shared at the Old Mutual Thought Leaders Forum offer a valuable roadmap for organizations and individuals navigating the future of work. By embracing flexibility, prioritizing productivity, and fostering a culture of collaboration, we can unlock the full potential of the workforce and create a more resilient and adaptable work environment.
To learn more about the Old Mutual Thought Leaders Forum and its insights on the future of work and retirement, visit oldmutual.co.za/ThoughtLeadersForum.