The following is referencing an original article posted by JLL (“New job roles appear to manage new ways of working”).
The future is here – and it is bringing change! As remote work becomes a long-term option, new job roles are emerging to meet expanding demands. This new development of the working world creates a need for the addition of jobs that are dedicated to employee happiness and smooth communication.
Examples of these new listings include directors of remote working, directors of wellbeing, and chief data officers.
As we dive into what these mean, let’s recognize the situation as a whole. Shown in a new JLL survey, respondents said they expect their company to support them in remote working. This includes providing the right ergonomic workspaces, supplying efficient technology, and supporting wellbeing.
In order for all of this to take place, it makes sense why companies would put someone in charge of remote work. Through coordinating with IT teams, checking in on remote employees, and managing unique distanced needs, a director in this field is likely going to become common as a COVID-19 WFH fix becomes a long-term WFH lifestyle.
Height adjustable desks, monitor arms, and ergonomic chairs are more likely to be found in a home office environment now more than ever before, along with a higher expectation of being provided by the employer.
“Good mental health in the workplace is very much connected to building communities so people feel they not only belong but that they’re supported in their work,” Flore Pradere, Global Research Director at JLL says. “Employees now expect more – and companies need to respond if they’re to attract and retain the best people.”
The more you support your employees, the more you can expect in return through better attitudes, higher work quality, and even a nicer company appearance to customers.
What does this mean for corporate culture?
A strong corporate culture is vital in today’s world but achieving and maintaining that can be equally as difficult to do so with distanced employees. However, employees are finding one thing that supports their mental health and happiness: flexible working hours.
Remote work already cuts commute time, which greatly leads to more time with family or time to enjoy after-work activities. But employees are also asking for some flexibility to flip over a load of laundry on their breaks or take the dog for a walk.
The new job listings, such as the chief data officer mentioned earlier, can help find the perfect balance for these activities with keeping employees on target, as well as manage how to best utilize the spaces within an office. Quiet and personal desks are crucial, but are co-working and communal spaces just as necessary? Many are saying yes, but only someone in these new integrated roles will figure it out and how to best manage employees, distanced and in-office.
“As we move to more hybrid ways of working, new job roles will be required,” Pradere concludes. “But at their heart, many of these will be about driving collaboration, building communities and supporting people’s wellbeing wherever they’re working from.”