KQED's Forum How Did the Pandemic Change Work for You?
Apr 21, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Aki Ito, Chief Correspondent at Business Insider, dives into workplace issues like burnout and hustle culture. Nicholas Bloom, Stanford economics professor, examines how the pandemic has reshaped our relationships with work, emphasizing changes in remote work dynamics. Joan Williams, a leader in work-life law, shares insights on evolving job roles and the impact on working parents. They explore the complexities of hybrid work, revealing personal stories of adaptation and the ongoing challenge of achieving work-life balance.
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Pandemic Changed Work Perspectives
- The pandemic triggered a major reassessment of people's relationship to work.
- Many questioned the value of long hours and employer loyalty after mass layoffs and risk.
Remote Work Permanently Expanded
- Remote work is now permanent for many professionals, typically one to two days per week.
- Working from home included 1-2 million more disabled Americans entering the workforce.
Remote Work Limits and Downsides
- A state worker highlighted downsides of remote work where jobs can't be done from home.
- They noted loss of mentorship and collaboration especially for junior employees.