24th May 2021
How to return to the workplace (or not) – in a post covid world – Chris Dyer
This snippet is part of our Ebook How to return to the workplace (or not) – in a post covid world. Advice and suggestions from our Top 101 influencers. You can download the full eBook with all the advice here.
Chris Dyer, Keynote Speaker, Consultant, Bestselling Author
The question itself begs for reflection. Are you sure you need to return to the office? If no, spend your time figuring out how to make remote and flexible work an advantage for your staff and company. If you think returning is a must, ask why. There are jobs that require someone to be in a certain place at a certain time. But, if you are returning out of habit, to appease a senior leader, or out of fear….the future of work is about to pass you by.
Remote and flexible work has been given the “supercharged upgrade” usually only seen in the movies. In just one year we have advanced the state of work by decades. The forced pivot of a pandemic has finally given everyone in the organization a glimpse of the future and the proof it works. Companies that embrace this new reality will retain top staff, attract new employees that were never accessible to them, and truly provide real wellbeing to employees. You can keep riding that horse, or invest in that new car.
Fully remote, or fully in person are the models that are best. Hybrid environments are hardest to figure out and implement. If your company is trying to make hybrid work, be prepared for it to take longer, need more input from staff, next level communication from leadership, and the expectation that several pivots or course corrections will happen.
Flexibility is the true benefit to all parties. The employee can stop for an hour and take their child to school, eliminate the daily commute, and care for a sick family member all without taking off work or having a drop in performance. The company can retain top talent, find new talent in diverse locations, and even hire a far more diverse set of employees. By casting a larger net into the employment field, companies can finally achieve their largest talent goals, if they act now. The finish line is rewarding with flexible work, but will take dedication, practice, and even a great coach. Don’t forget to get help!