By many accounts we’re experiencing recession-like circumstances. It’s an atmosphere where job security trumps just about any other concern. Enduring such times, the employee is more likely to step up to the plate, fearing for his or her job. But that doesn’t necessarily make for a productive and happy workplace.
However, there some U.S. companies that acknowledge – and in fact – are acting upon the connection between a better treated employee, and a more profitable and productive workplace. Embracing new initiatives even amidst a troubling economic climate, positive change is in view in many workplaces, according to the Families and Work Institute.
The think tank just released it’s new 2008 Guide to Bold New Ideas for Making Work "Work." The desire to embrace human capital is what appears to drive the new ideas in the workplaces featured in this report. The innovative trends in workplace practices were culled from the 129 award-winning organizations honored by the Alfred P. Sloan Awards for Business Excellence in Workplace Flexibility.
"Necessity drives invention," says Ellen Galinksy, President and Co-Founder of Families and Work Institute. "Even in the face of deepening economic adversity, employers in communities across the United States are reinventing work." Galinsky says these companies are, "…blazing a path to the successful workplace of the future, positioning themselves for long-term sustainability."
Here are some of the top trends from the report:
- Employees are having more input into decision making and managers are listening.
- Employees are having many opportunities to be challenged, to learn, and to upgrade their skills.
- The career ladder is being replaced with Flex-careers.
- Technology is being used creatively – not to cause overwork, but to provide flexibility.
- Employees are encouraged to take good care of themselves.
Employees and companies face sustainability dilemmas, albeit for different reasons. Companies are saddled with a multi-generational workforce in a tightening job market where attracting and retaining employees becomes critical to keep a lid on the bottom line. Employees need to hold onto their jobs and might be burdened with facing burnout, rather than raise a red flag in an effort toward worklife balance or better worklife flexibility.
I think this report lays some fertile ground for change. The company profiles demonstrate the benefits of being more aware of how we value our human capital in the workforce. But it also reveals how workers are putting personal values to work in their daily jobs. The revelations in the findings were based in large part on employee ratings. This gives a more accurate view of where we stand as a society in raising consciousness around human values in the workplace and in business.
