New Working standards
Remote work and Time Off — Much of Gen Y and Z are worried less about the money and more about time flexibility and how their work makes them feel.
When and Where we work is very important in 2023 and beyond
Loyalty to an organization doesn’t matter nearly as much as the idea of, “Am I getting what I need and want? What is my path to success?” And that path does NOT have to be up [gasp]! Which means as leaders, do our employees’ own aspirations match our aspirations FOR them?
Work location? Take your pick…
Leaders, how are you developing new working standards that support younger workforces? For instance, remote working is fairly new. Do you have a remote work policy? Have you thought about these boundaries? Have you asked for feedback from your team?
Have you looked at how progress and merit increases are determined? Are you creating new metrics on task completion, hours worked? What does a creative compensation package look like in your organization?
What are your expectations for showing up, doing the work if they are now remote or hybrid? Have you altered your benefits? Offered new benefits since working routines have changed? For instance, do you offer a commuting/parking reimbursement versus an allowance to upgrade the technology set up at home? New headset, webcam, lighting, speakers?
Stodgy C-Suite Executives who continue to try and cram this Baby Boomer mentality, this antiquated model of “in-person 9-to-5 then go home and close the door and turn off the lights” doesn’t actually work anymore anyway, because of the advances in technology. We can talk, email, text, and host meetings from everywhere, so new tech tools mean you take your work home with you and are accessible anytime.
How are you leveraging the advantages of that access and flexibility without destroying space and privacy? Examine the implications, consult your trusted colleagues and ask your teams. Then set boundaries appreciating that not every team may have the same needs.
While some of this may seem a little counterintuitive, such as giving your employees more time flexibility you will actually improve productivity and performance because your employees feel seen, heard and recognized. Use their needs to begin the conversation and take a giant step forward together in creating a great company with a great culture.
