By Juliet Hammond, Research and Data Analytics Lead

Well it’s the end of May and lockdown is easing in some parts of the world, whilst the pandemic continues to terrify communities elsewhere. We are cautiously making steps towards a safer future, reconnecting with our communities and work colleagues but remembering to value the silver linings (remote working, flexibility, local support) which have been the results of this big covid cloud.  The tone of research is increasingly forward focused too.

The Economist summarises the shift to working from home as largely positive and indicates that it is here to stay in some form and so they identify ways for companies to mitigate the worst elements of WFH and leverage the strengths. One challenge is the impact on women and McKinsey offers recommendations for organisations to turn the tide of women exiting the workforce. They also notice that half employees are reporting burn out and recommend that employers explain future hybrid models to ease uncertainty and anxiety, as well as noting an increase in training on social and emotional skills to support a post-pandemic workforce.

Research from Gartner suggests most companies drive change through top-down strategies whereas Ken Blanchard’s research indicates strategies which engage employees early are more successful. He says ‘people don’t resist change, they resist being controlled’. Josh Bersin warns of a talent shortage and sees companies offering training and career progression to lure candidates.

And finally…. Research from the University of Michigan suggests we can boost productivity by taking a break and doing nothing. This gives time for a ‘neuro-clean-up’ which will set you up to be more productive. So go ahead and put your feet up!

What does this mean for leadership?

Leaders keep themselves and their squads up to date on the latest thinking so click here for links to all the research highlighted above and more!

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