Kate Lister: Research, People, Trust | Work 20XX #12
Apr 8, 2023
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Kate Lister, President of Global Workplace Analytics, shares research on telecommuting and the Mount Rushmore of remote-work issues: productivity, culture, innovation, and employee engagement. They also discuss benefits of remote work, challenges for mid-managers, activity-based workspaces, demographic trends, the future of work with chat GPT, importance of culture and leadership, and the interconnection between profits, people, and the planet.
Remote work promotes productivity, culture, and innovation through communication and trust.
Organizations need to adapt to changing workspaces by creating customized strategies for collaboration and individual tasks.
Deep dives
The Power of Remote Work
Remote work is becoming a dominant trend in the business world, and its benefits have been highlighted by experts like Kate Lister, the president of Global Workplace Analytics. Remote work has gained momentum even before the COVID-19 pandemic, with research suggesting its positive impact on companies, individuals, and the environment. Remote work provides cost savings for companies and allows access to a wider talent pool. It also promotes inclusivity and fosters a sense of culture by focusing on communication and trust. Work productivity has increased for both employees and managers, debunking the fear that productivity would decline in remote work setups. Innovation thrives in remote work environments when psychological safety is ensured, enabling employees to take risks and bring new ideas to the table. The future of work will bring even more advancements, such as holograms and the use of generative AI, which further emphasizes the need for continuous learning and an open mindset. Overall, remote work is not just a pandemic-driven trend but a long-term solution that can benefit companies and individuals alike.
Adapting to Changing Workspaces
The workplace is evolving rapidly, necessitating organizations to adapt to changing workspaces. The traditional office setup is being reimaged, shifting from a row of open cubicles to activity-based environments that cater to different types of work. Hybrid models that combine remote and in-office work are gaining prominence. This new approach allows companies to optimize their office spaces and bring employees together for collaborative work and socialization, while also offering privacy and focus areas for individual tasks. Creating intentional spaces where employees can engage in meaningful activities is essential for productivity, well-being, and employee retention. The key is to understand the unique needs of each company and develop a customized workspace strategy that aligns with their goals and culture.
The Role of Leadership in a Changing Work Landscape
Leaders play a crucial role in navigating the changing work landscape and driving organizational success. It starts with a mindset shift, where leaders must embrace change, be open to continuous learning, and prioritize the well-being and growth of their employees. By setting clear objectives, fostering a culture of learning, and providing the necessary resources, leaders can create an environment where employees are engaged, motivated, and adaptable. Effective communication is also critical in ensuring employees understand the organization's goals, feel included, and have a sense of purpose. Leaders need to advocate for sustainability, diversity, and social responsibility, integrating them into the fabric of the company. By prioritizing people and planet, and understanding that profitability follows, leaders can build resilient organizations equipped to thrive in a rapidly evolving work landscape.
The Future of Work and the Importance of Agility
The future of work is marked by rapid technological advancements, requiring organizations and individuals to embrace agility. With innovations like generative AI, holograms, and virtual metaverses on the horizon, reskilling and continuous learning become integral to staying relevant. Emphasizing flexibility, adaptability, and a growth mindset is crucial for success. Companies that invest in creating an internal talent marketplace and fostering a culture of learning and innovation will thrive in this dynamic landscape. It is essential to shift from traditional degree-based hiring to a skills-focused approach. However, the responsibility of preparing for the future of work does not rest solely on individuals. Leaders must play a pivotal role in creating a culture that embraces change, invests in learning opportunities, and actively supports employees' development. By doing so, organizations can proactively navigate the evolving work landscape and seize emerging opportunities.
Kate Lister | Research, People, Trust | Work 20XX #12
For decades, Kate Lister, President of Global Workplace Analytics, has been studying human productivity, workplace, and the benefits of employees spending less time in traditional offices. She reminds us that ‘telecommuting’ was coined by Jack Nilles in 1973.
Her specialty is research… she and her team have been mining thousands of research reports, the highlights of which she shares in the next 50 minutes. We cover the Mount Rushmore of remote-work issues: productivity, culture, innovation and employee engagement plus more in this extended conversation.
My Conversation with Kate Lister
Work 20XX Episode Page - Click Here - for show notes, links, references, and transcript
