If there’s one thing we learned from 2022, it’s that we have to be prepared for anything. The best way to be prepared is to stay informed on industry trends, market research, and company insights. Interior Motions is here to provide you with everything you need to know going into 2022.
While many companies have already returned to in-person operations, current research indicates that hybrid work is here to stay. According to a McKinsey’s American Opportunity Survey, “a whopping 58% of employed respondents say they work at least part of the time remotely.” This means that businesses will have to adapt their practices in the form of investing in furniture that supports technology, opting for hoteling stations over workstations, scheduling in-person meetings for select teams, etc. In a recent MillerKnoll survey, Debbie Lovich –Managing Director & Senior Partner of Boston Consulting Group– explained, “Covid enabled us to rethink work, but for office workers, the world has focused too narrowly on hybrid work. In 2023, I hope organizations expand their definition of better work to explore flexibility in hours, roles, leadership styles, and collaboration modes to create real agency, flexibility, trust, and accountability for all employees.”
In its State Of The Global Workplace report, Gallup concluded that “85% of employees are not actively engaged or (are) actively disengaged at work.” This can be attributed to the fact that the modern workforce craves purpose and development opportunities from their jobs. Gone are the days when your profession was just what you did from 9-5. The younger generation views work and life as interconnected and “a part of their identity.” Thus, the best way for managers to energize and engage their employees is to provide them with a sense of purpose– make sure that every individual feels valued and integral to the team.
With Covid-19 being such a trying time for everyone, it is no surprise that businesses in 2023 are allocating resources towards increased healthcare coverage, more paid time-off, and more mental-health training for managers. Because poor mental health contributes to greater absenteeism, the US economy suffers an annual loss of $210 billion . Thus, investing in mental health services helps your employees and your bottom line.
Sustainability is a win-win for modern businesses. The most sustainable option is oftentimes the most efficient, the most ethical, and the best for the planet. According to Repowered, “not only is [sustainability] highly appreciated by consumers and employees, but in many cases, it’s expected.” There are many ways to establish a more conscientious company including adding a sustainability team, switching to eco-friendly cleaning products, reducing your paper usage, and buying refurbished furniture.
In 2020, the global market for DEI (the total amount of money dedicated toward DEI efforts in the workplace) was estimated at “$7.5 billion and is projected to more than double to $15.4 billion by 2026.” This demonstrates companies’ recognition of the growing need for systemic changes through DEI initiatives. The image below lists what McKinsey & Company deems the top 5 qualities of a “significant, scalable, quantifiable, and sustained” DEI plan.
You have probably heard of the phrase, “work smarter, not harder.” Well a recent study of more than two dozen companies is putting that theory to the test. The participants switched from a five-day work week to a four-day work and reported “increased sales, lower burnout and improved absenteeism.” Believe it or not, all of the companies who participated plan to indefinitely continue the four-day work week.
If you are worried that your monthly newsletters are falling upon deaf ears, fear not. According to Trade Press Services, “85% of employees say they’re most motivated when management offers regular updates on company news.” By keeping them in the know about company ongoings, you are signaling to them their value as a team member.
We hope these trends provide you with some helpful food for thought on how you want your business to proceed in the coming year. If there is anything Interior Motions can do to improve your business or operations, please reach out at contact@interiormotions.com or by phone at 510-653-6100.
Also read: Office Organization
