The workplace has been currently experiencing the most radical transformation in generations. Employee expectations have changed, and the pre-pandemic way of working is unlikely to continue. The pandemic has hastened a movement of employees seeking a Transform workplace value proposition that is vastly different from what employees were drawn to years ago.

The truth is that there is no one-size-fits-all recipe for any and all organisations. Thus, let’s discuss what leaders can put in practise for the changing work environment. This Transformation Tuesday, know the top four must have attributes for a leader of this new era. 

• Fairness:

On the one hand, people are missing out on human interaction and highly regarded collaboration, while on the other hand, there is the risk of an unequal hybrid workplace. Working from home increased workplace fairness. The “zoomocracy” was the “great leveler,” with everyone working in similar conditions, displaying as rectangles of similar sizes and randomly arranged on a screen.

People have varying preferences when it comes to office work. As leaders, we must recognize each individual’s uniqueness and respond to their needs intentionally, or else inequalities will worsen. To influence the culture of the future, we must purposefully design hybrid work. Fairness should be defined as a daily goal.

• Inclusion:

Inclusion is fostered by a fair workplace. However, an inclusive workplace is more than just being fair. It is about creating a culture that encourages everyone to bring their best selves to work every day.

The role of the leader is to foster an environment in which everyone can be heard, be themselves, and differences are valued. How can you tell if you’re doing a good job as a leader? Two questions to ponder: Is it common for your team to agree on your point of view without debate? Is your team similar in terms of lifestyle, ethnicity, gender, skin colour, sexual orientation, religion, and political preferences? If you answered yes to either of those questions, you should reconsider your leadership style.

• Trust :

Fairness and inclusion are required to establish a culture of trust. Trust serves as the foundation for fostering collaboration, engagement, and a positive workplace culture. It’s a good thing. Clear rules, transparency, accountability, and direct communication are all critical components in establishing trust. This generation is strongly opposed to backstabbing competitive cultures. Trust reigns supreme.

• Empathy:

You’ve probably heard the expression, “Treat others as you would like to be treated.” That is not an example of empathy. Empathy is the practice of treating others in the manner in which they would want to be treated. To do so, we must be able to viscerally feel the other person’s experience.

To be a compassionate leader is more essential than ever during these challenging times. It entails more than just being sensitive to others’ feelings; it entails genuinely expressing concerns, inquiring about challenges, and then listening to and assisting employees’ responses. Adhering to this model will result in a more dedicated and engaged workforce.

Workspace should be a source of fulfillment, trust, collaboration, and a safe space for employees to be their true selves, rather than just a physical traditional office. Take advantage of the opportunity to create a new workplace that represents the set of possible hybrid worlds.

Written & Compiled By Faber Mayuri & Faber Aleena