As the classic image of a 9-to-5 white-collar office worker becomes a concept of the past, the worker economy is undergoing major shifts. New expectations of flexibility and freedom are expressing themselves in the ‘Great Resignation’ and a rising gig economy.
Research shows these trends have been accelerated by the pandemic, with nearly a quarter more workers choosing to enter the gig economy since the pandemic first began. In the key fields of computer engineering and business operations, gig employment has seen the most concentrated rise.
According to Steve Tonks, SVP – EMEA at WorkForce Software, companies need to adapt to the changing workforce.
“With a third of the UK engaging in gig work, and employees’ changing expectations, it is essential that company leaders re-define their approach to managing freelance employees,” he said.
Tonks continues, “With workers resigning in search of a better work/life balance, higher pay, and more flexibility, organisational resilience requires that they are made to feel heard, valued, engaged, and productive. Improving employee experience across diverse teams requires holistically shifting mindsets and values.”
These shifts involve reworking processes to better connect workers and their employers through regular communication, simple task management systems, and support networks that emphasize wellbeing.
Tonks concludes, “Workforce management processes must be adapted to generate long-term sustained change that benefits not only the organisation but also employees – no matter how they come to be part of your team, or for how long.”