As we head into 2024, let's take a look at six workplace trends that will impact the future of feedback:
Multi-generational Workplaces
Four Day work week
Upskilling requirements
Engagement
Recruitment & Retention
Remote & Hybrid
For the first time in history, we have five generations working together. In the future, your team may have a mix of ages represented. This has both benefits and challenges. One major benefit is the advantage of diversity. Challenges include differing expectations about communication, leadership, teamwork and feedback.
Since COVID many workplaces have experienced major changes in how employees work, including when, even how much and time we work. The evidence is compelling, one study found that 78% of employees who work a 4-day work week reported being happier and less stressed.
Many Leaders are finding it increasingly challenging to gather everyone together for face-to-face team meetings. These meetings are where connections are made, relationships are built, and brainstorming can happen. If you have ever tried to facilitate a team brainstorming session online, you will know how frustrating it can be!
According to the World Economic Forum, at least a billion people will need to be upskilled over the next decade to deal with technological transformation. This includes advances in technology and the increased use of robotics and artificial intelligence. Another study found that almost half of all employees will need reskilling by 2025. This will mean lots of feedback conversations!
Keeping yourself and your team engaged has been an ongoing struggle for many Leaders around the world. About 85% of employees are actively disengaged or not engaged at work globally. Europe has an employment engagement of 52%. Disengagement impacts productivity.
Many Leaders are finding it hard to recruit and keep good employees. Thirty-three percent of employees leave their jobs because they are bored with searching for new challenges. Boredom comes when they are no longer motivated to continue what they do, indicating low employee engagement. (Kornferry)
According to projections, about 75% of people experience fewer distractions working remotely, which will increase in the coming years. The focus will increasingly shift towards flexibility in the workplace. Consider these statistics (Flexjobs), as you think about your team:
34% of knowledge workers are working full-time from their office.
49% are working in a hybrid arrangement.
18% are working remotely full-time.