The changing workplace

The guy in Panera sipped his coffee and went back to typing on his laptop. He looked like he had been there for hours. He had earbuds on and had a stack of folders next to him. Every once in awhile he would look up from his laptop to take a sip from his coffee. In another corner, two woman talked excitedly. I could hear them talk about ways to increase business. One mentioned some event that she had planned, while the other offered suggestions and ideas that had worked for her.

I couldn’t help but think about how work has changed.

I’m not the only one to have these questions. When asked, nearly two-thirds (64%) of professionals globally are overwhelmed by how quickly work is changing, with 68% searching for more support than ever before, according to a study late last year by LinkedIn.

Changes in the world, changes at work

We might not be working from home at the same numbers like during the pandemic, but we’re certainly more mobile. The pandemic changed us. Yes, the majority of places have gone back to the office, but we’re working in many different places now.

Here’s some of the ways I’ve noticed that work has changed in recent years:

–Technology, Automation and Artificial Intelligence. Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are increasingly integrated into the workplace. Companies are counting on AI to help employees to focus more on strategic and creative tasks. Companies are also using AI-powered tools to improve recruitment, engagement, and performance management.

–The drive for continuous improvement. Better, faster, quicker with less. Companies have long sought out ways to improve efficiency, streamline processes, and to adapt to changing market conditions. This could just me noticing it more, but it feels like the search has gone into overdrive. It’s everywhere now. Do it better. Do it yesterday. Especially with less people.

–Learning online. Online learning offers significant power through its flexibility, accessibility, and potential for personalized learning experiences. It allows individuals to learn at their own pace, from anywhere, and can be more cost-effective than traditional learning. In addition, online often provides more diverse learning materials and opportunities for interaction, fostering a global learning community.

–More free-lance work. The worker who gets hired and works for the same company throughout his or her career is changing. Short-term, project-based gig work is becoming more prevalent offering greater flexibility and autonomy and instability for the worker and company.

–Greater global competition. This one certainly isn’t new, but the growth of technology has meant that competition now for products and workers can be down the street or half way around the globe. It’s a different world.

The smart workplace managers have re-learned the age old lesson that that you equip your team members with the best of tools and let them work. They’ve been reminded of the importance of good people management.

It’s a different work environment with enormous challenges and opportunities. Change is good, right?