In times of Corona Virus the news are coming thick and fast every day. Not just politics and hospitals announced the emergency mode, also the working world is facing an uncertain future.
The economy is forced to deal with terms like Diversity Management and New Work. According to Eurostat database only 5% of the people work from home. Unfortunately it can be stated that most of the german companies are still holding on to a very strong presence culture and a corresponding management style. Because of this obsolet culture many firms are starting to worry and panic about the productivity of their employees in times of home office.
But why is that such a big problem? The benefits and the chances of digitalization were praised years ago. Discussions about Diversity Management and New Work are all over the news. Flexible workspaces and individual work routines create new forms of cooperation. There is no need anymore to get on an overcrowded underground, train or bus to get to your workplace.
The new workplace can be your balcony, the kitchen or your own home office. Work life and private life are merged together, breaking through the rigid structures of a 9 to 5 work day. Giving space for a dynamic workflow, increasing creativity and innovative ideas. And yet it seems like in this “first Home Office week” many employers are struggling with the new tasks. There is a very skeptical stance towards the technical resources, the possible lack of productivity and also the concern that isolation keeps away creativity and a workflow at all.
This time of social isolation implies the possibility and chance to experiment with new working methods. Of course there are systemically relevant professions, that can`t go into home office, but in this digital age the majority of people work most of the time with their computer or sit in a meeting. Potentially this can take place digital. If in the future there is still no need anymore for full-time presence, this could be a big chance to win talents for the company that live in a different country or depend on home office because of their private situations.
The management forces are now asked to take a stand and step toward future. Transforming themselves into Experts of Change Management in a very short period of time. Times of crisis are longing for change. Experiments are welcome and possible mistakes forgiven. I couldn’t think of a better time to show employees trust and value their work. Use the crisis to rise strong.
