The future of work: futureproofing careers and workforces

Workforces around the world have experienced more change in the past few months than they have in the past few years.

The Covid-19 pandemic led to the world’s largest ever workplace experiment as companies were forced to quickly mobilize their workforces from office-based working to home working with very little warning or preparation.

Employees who had never previously worked from home before began to experience the impacts on their health, family relationships and mental wellbeing. Managers discovered that their teams could remain productive and connected while working remotely.

But, what have we learned and how might this shape the future of work? And which of the perceived positives of flexible working should hiring managers approach with caution when planning their workforces of the future?

Robert Walters surveyed more than 5,000 professionals worldwide and found 85% expect more flexibility to work from home in the future. However, in a follow up survey, 60% of the more than 2,000 business leaders surveyed said concerns about employee productivity would prevent their organization from allowing more employees to work from home.

Clearly, a balance will need to be struck. Employers and employees need to reconcile their future working preferences by reflecting on the past few months. They can then reinvent their working arrangements to match the long-term future needs of their organizations, people and customers. This rare opportunity should not be wasted.

What's inside:

• The new era of flexibility
• Tomorrow’s most in-demand skills
• Leading in the new era of work
• Curating a workforce for the future
• Preparing your organization for the future

Read more of our insightful hiring advice articles here.