To future-proof your business, take a look at the workplace trends likely to stick around in 2022 and after the pandemic is over. 

The Covid-19 pandemic has affected every aspect of the globe. It’s impact on business in particular, continues to be seen. Some businesses, like those in hospitality or travel, have suffered huge amounts. Other businesses have actually grown, whether digital businesses, ecommerce or even the global smartphone market which has seen a growth of over 30%. 

One thing that is for certain, is that all businesses have a close eye on what can be learnt from the pandemic to boost future business. There are definite trends in the workplace that have been seen, and some of them may well stick around long-after the virus has gone. Let’s take a closer look at some of them:

Mixing Remote Working With Office-Based Working

Remote working was already on the rise, then the pandemic pushed it forward into being a necessity for most companies. Now businesses have adapted to this way of working, the chances are they will keep that kind of flexibility going. Although, there will be some in-office work still occurring for various reasons, including the longed for social aspect of it by some employees. 

Flexible Working Hours

Hours-based contracts are going to see a decline as results based working is kept as a better option. This comes in combination with remote working and huge flexibility being given for child care and other needs. Employers know that trusting their employees to get the work done takes precedence over a ‘clocking in’ system. 

Employee Wellbeing Prioritised 

Staff wellbeing was always important, but now mental health has worsened for many due to the pandemic, it has to be even more important. 

Workplaces are likely to see a boost in wellbeing features such as supportive decor, healthy snacks and breather spaces. Overall company communication will see a more supportive tone, with health newsletters and ‘checking in’ 1-2-1’s becoming the norm. 

Upskilling In Weaker Areas

Workplaces will have seen a boost in all kinds of skill areas that were neglected before. Innovation, creativity, remote communication and digital skills have all improved in many businesses. Those skills will continue to be prioritised as a form of future-proofing. Furthermore, skills that were shown to be weak and problematic in the pandemic, will be a focus to strengthen for the future. 

Global Collaboration

Virtual working and globalisation in general will cause a global collaboration between businesses, self employed workers and employees. One set of workers could be in the workplace in one country collaborating with a creative team in another country. This will become a normal aspect of most corporations. 

Employee Value

There was already a gap between what younger workers want and expect, and what the modern workplace offers. Now the pandemic has happened, younger workers have recognised their value even more, and place even more value on their own career desires. To tap into the true global talent on offer from younger candidates, companies will have to truly value their employees. They will need to offer benefits like training, health features, better technology and real forward-thinking. 

“Intelligence is the ability to adapt to change.” - 

Stephen Hawking

The above trends are just some of the differences you can expect to see in the modern workplace after the pandemic has ended. The question is, what is your business doing to keep up with those trends and ultimately, compete to stay present in this new world?