EOH and iOCO were among those at the forefront of that change. Our experience has taught us the benefits of automation and technology. But we also know what can’t be automated: among other things, leadership.
The most effective global responses I’m seeing to this hybrid world of work are also hybrid in nature. Engineers, facilities experts and developers are looking at ways to incorporate screens, cameras and mixed-reality to create effective and inclusive hybrid environments. Digital and IT infrastructure are focused on the essentials – security, connectivity and productivity – while people specialists are closely tracking employee expectations and pressures.
It’s tempting to say that because many of us work from home in casual clothing our days are going to be more relaxed. But the intensity of our days has increased substantially. Ad hoc and unstructured meetings are on the rise. The number of meetings and chats has risen steadily and – without physical cues that signify loss of attention and discomfort – meetings are getting longer. As a group we’re trying to set reasonable boundaries to combat digital exhaustion.
We need to rethink the way we reward and remunerate talent. In my early career I valued a stable, growing income. I’ve noticed, though, that some of our most talented people these days are happy to take a pay cut or give up some security in order to establish a better work/life balance or pursue activities they consider rewarding. Again, it’s important not to ascribe your own views to people and make assumptions about what they find meaningful or valuable.
I met the CEO of a large company some time ago who was running a 30,000-headcount business across 20 countries. His approach, which I’ve come to believe in strongly, was to clearly establish “the rules of the game”, and then allow your people to take to the field and play. In other words, make sure the things you’re not willing to compromise on are well understood so that everyone’s playing the same game on the same playing field. But within that context, allow space for creativity and autonomy.