HOW EMPLOYEES AND COMPANIES WORK IN FUTURE
NEW WORK
The world of work is undergoing a seismic shift. New technologies and social developments are driving a transformation that is fundamentally changing our understanding of work. In recent years, digitization has already made many things possible that were previously unthinkable. Remote work – i.e. working from home or on the road – has become established as a result of the Corona pandemic and will continue to play a major role. Even though many large companies are now starting to demand presence in the office again, remote work is here to stay. Studies show that hybrid work models are emerging as the new normal.
Workplace of tomorrow: Flexible, digital and global
Co-working spaces, digital nomadism and virtual working environments in the metaverse are further examples of the diversity of future workplaces. This development enables companies to recruit talent worldwide and offer employees more freedom and flexibility. However, it also presents companies with new challenges, such as ensuring data security, promoting the corporate culture in a decentralized structure and leading at a distance.
New ways of working: automation and artificial intelligence
At the same time, artificial intelligence (AI) and automation will change the way we work. Routine activities and repetitive tasks are increasingly being taken over by software. As a result, employees can concentrate on creative and strategic tasks and work more efficiently with the support of AI and automation – provided they are suitably qualified.
This is precisely where a major challenge for executives lies. They should empower and motivate employees with repetitive tasks to develop both technologically and in terms of content – away from clerical processing and towards creative solutions. It is obvious that implementation in practice is often difficult. Therefore, managers should pay special attention to this management task and develop suitable solutions for each individual case.
The trend towards AI and automation means that professions in the fields of data analysis, AI development, sustainable technologies and digital media are becoming increasingly in demand. At the same time, the need for upskilling and reskilling will increase to ensure that employees meet the demands of the changing labor market.
Companies of the future: Strategic Networks
Another consequence of technological changes is that traditional hierarchical organizational structures in companies are increasingly being replaced by flexible and networked models. Agilely organized, project-based teams will be of central importance in the future. Companies are increasingly relying on platform and network models. This means that they not only involve their own employees, but also integrate external experts, freelancers and partner companies into their projects.
This “open architecture” promotes innovation and allows for a more flexible use of resources. With such adaptable structures, companies can react more quickly to market changes. This is associated with a new understanding of leadership: while many corporate managers used to define themselves in terms of personnel responsibility and the number of full-time employees they manage, the flexible and networked models require a new mindset that focuses on impact and output.
In addition, values such as sustainability, diversity and social responsibility are gaining in importance. Companies of the future are not only seen as economic actors, but also as social shapers. Transparent communication and a focus on ethical action are crucial to building and maintaining trust from stakeholders.
A dynamic and challenging future
The working world of the future will be characterised by flexibility, digitalisation and a closer integration of people and technology. Companies will have to organize themselves as dynamic networks and try out new working models in order to remain competitive.
The challenges are immense: Employees must continuously undergo further training, companies must find a balance between innovation and social responsibility. If this transformation succeeds, it will also offer a unique opportunity to redefine work and adapt it to the needs of a changing economic world.