Compared to the workplaces of our parents and grandparents, today’s corporate world has undergone a significant transformation. As a result, modern employees approach their work differently, particularly in light of the pandemic.
Before we delve into the specifics, let us take a closer look at the current trends in employee experiences that are shaping industries worldwide. Here’s a brief overview of the evolving employee experience.
A Glimpse of Changing Employee Experience
Statistics show that the employee experience has evolved over the past decade due to significant technological advancements. Improved technology has enabled employees to work remotely, which has become a prevalent trend in modern-day workplaces.
Currently, 26% of the U.S. workforce operates remotely, while 74% of U.S. companies have adopted a hybrid work model. This trend is expected to continue in the future.
In the U.K., employees are currently testing out a four-day workweek, and it has been showing promising results for both workers and companies. The Emirate of Sharjah in the UAE has also adopted a similar system.
Let us explore the evolution of employee experience in the workplace.
The Traditional Employee-Employer Relationship
The 20th-century guiding principles for work heavily depended on the traditional employee-employer relationship. With limited resources, employers were only focused on getting the task done, which meant there was no room for improving working conditions for employees by offering wellness programs, mandatory breaks, or other considerations to improve working conditions for the employees.
A Shift in Focus
As society became more modernized, many employers changed their approach from solely completing tasks to enhancing relationships with their employees in order to increase productivity.
Technology assisted employers in optimizing employee performance and productivity by using practical HR tools like management systems and time-tracking software.
Improving Employee Experience
As the organization’s focus shifted toward employee well-being and workers gained more awareness of their rights and responsibilities, it helped develop a positive working culture.
High-performing employees were considered an integral part of the workplace, and employee engagement was an organizational priority.
Modern-Day Workplace Experience
Businesses now understand the value of highly engaged employees who feel heard and respected at workplaces. Such workplaces provide a platform for employees where they are motivated to excel and develop a rewarding career.
Modern-day HR utilizes several resources that help cultivate an improved employee experience. This includes optimizing recruitment and selection processes, providing and upgrading training, and improving on-the-job skills to ensure a positive workplace experience for all employees.
The Future of the Employee Experience
With employee experience drastically improving in recent years, the trend is likely to continue in the future. With constantly improving technology and the use of AI to improve working conditions, technology will continue to play an integral role in enhancing the employee experience.
By addressing the changing needs of employees, modern-day workplaces can retain high-performing employees. Organizations need to ensure that the employees feel respected, heard, and satisfied at work which will continue to be an integral aspect of enhanced employee experience.
Final Words
Over the past few years, there has been a significant shift in the employee experience. The focus in modern workplaces is no longer solely on productivity but also on improving employee engagement and well-being. This trend is expected to continue as technology evolves.
