The workforce is changing at a rapid pace. So much so that the cultural phenomenon deemed, “The Great Resignation” continues to capture headlines. Employees are more vocal about their dissatisfaction with their working environments, and many have resigned for different reasons. This phenomenon, a phrase coined by Anthony Klotz, a business management professor at Texas A&M University, has taken concerned business owners by surprise — forcing them to scramble for solutions to their staffing needs.
In 2021, some 3.9 million employees were resigning per month on average, and this trend is predicted to continue into 2022, as 4.4 million employees resigned in February alone — a slight increase from the previous month.
In addition to having expectations of a hybrid or work-from-home option, workers now expect a certain level of fairness and equality from their employers. They want to feel valued and appreciated, and don’t want to sacrifice their personal lives for their jobs. The current climate has forced many business owners to reevaluate their workplace culture and adapt in order to retain their best employees.
While these changes may cause feelings of uncertainty, it also presents opportunities for employers and job seekers. Below, Better Business Bureau reviews some of the workplace trends predicted to be the most prominent in 2022.
Hybrid work models
are still preferred
by employees
The workplace changes initiated by the pandemic have many people looking for jobs that offer a better work-life balance. In particular, they are gravitating towards hybrid work models, where they can flex between working at home and in the office. In fact, not only do 83% of workers prefer a hybrid work model, but 63% of high-growth companies have already adopted a hybrid workforce model.
Establishing trust with your employee to fulfill their responsibilities is not only empowering but also sets a higher standard of accountability. Guiding your employee to set attainable goals and establishing performance measures such as OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) or KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) can significantly help your operation move forward in a hybrid setting.
A heightened
push for automation
Automation has been used to increase productivity over the last few decades, and in the wake of the pandemic it is being implemented even further. A full 88% of small businesses say automation allows them to compete with larger companies by enabling them to move faster, reduce errors and offer better customer support. Businesses facing staffing shortages can especially benefit from automation, which allows them to maintain a similar work output with fewer employees.
With more tasks being automated, employees can shift their focus to a variety of projects, and even obtain new skill sets to perform more challenging work.
Investing in employees
Every company should strive to have enthusiastic and motivated employees. Demonstrating a commitment to employee growth and success builds loyalty. Some 94% of employees said they would stay at a company longer if it invested in their learning and development. Not only will they actively work to improve business operations, but they will become trusted advocates.
Setting up a growth plan, providing funds for courses or certifications inside and outside of their role, mentorship programs, personal development assessments and inviting guest speakers are all affordable and creative ways to invest in your employees.
The Better Business Bureau is committed to providing the most relevant, up-to-date information to help navigate the complex business landscape. For more business tips, visit trust-bbb.org.
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Roseann Freitas is marketplace manager Hawai‘i, Better Business Bureau Northwest + Pacific, at 900 Fort Street Mall, Ste. 1310, Honolulu, HI 96813 260-0643, bbb.org. “Start With Trust.”
