intelligent
// FEATURE //
EFORE THE PANDEMIC ,
B traditional office-based work models dominated the corporate landscape . Employees commuted to offices , worked at their desks , primarily interacted face-to-face and often relied on in-person meetings . This model had its limitations , including long commutes , rigid schedules and potential constraints on work / life balance .
However , according to the UK government ’ s Office for National Statistics ’ latest survey of employed adults who had worked between May 22 to June 2 , 2024 , 12 % indicated that they exclusively worked from home . Meanwhile 28 % revealed a combination of working from home and commuting to their workplace during the same period .
The end of remote ?
Although the pandemic forced a seismic shift , ushering in widespread remote work as organisations adapted to lockdowns and social distancing , the new numbers stand in opposition to numbers recorded in the previous years . The highest levels of remote work , with 49 % of the employed population indicating that they had engaged in remote work within the preceding week , were observed during the initial half of 2020 .
Ironically , even Zoom , the remote work forerunner and enabler , rolled out a new hybrid work approach in late 2023 , meaning employees close to an office will be asked to be on-site two days a week . By doing this , Zoom hoped to strike a balance between in-person collaboration and the benefits of remote work . So , how will it continue and what do you need to do to keep your employees happy ?
Remote work has proven to enhance employee autonomy , reduce commutes and open opportunities for a more diverse talent pool . However , in-person interactions foster creativity , mentorship and team cohesion , which are vital for innovation and growth .
Catering to a transgenerational workforce within a hybrid work model has its challenges . Businesses require a communication system that prioritises adaptability , empowering
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THIS MODEL HAD ITS LIMITATIONS , INCLUDING LONG COMMUTES , RIGID SCHEDULES AND POTENTIAL CONSTRAINTS ON WORK / LIFE BALANCE .
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