2021 Work Trend Index Annual Report: The Next Great Disruption Is Hybrid Work—Are We Ready? | Microsoft

The 2021 Work Trend Index outlines findings from a study of over 30,000 people in 31 countries and analyses of trillions of productivity and labor signals across Microsoft 365 and LinkedIn. It notes that employees want the best of both worlds with 73 percent of workers surveyed wanting flexible remote work options to continue, while 67 percent are craving more in-person time with their teams. And with over 40 percent of the global workforce considering leaving their employer this year, firms must have a thoughtful approach to hybrid work. The first section includes seven hybrid trends, including 3) High productivity is masking an exhausted workforce and 4) Gen Z is at risk and needs to be re-energized. The second section provides five strategies for business leaders as they address these challenges. One strategy—combat digital exhaustion from the top—covers tactics leaders can use to reduce workers’ burnout and workload. For example, leaders can use digital meetings only when collaboration is needed vs. informational/status topics that can be addressed through a “Teams Channel” or email. This excellent report will help leaders make choices about hybrid work that will affect their firm’s ability to compete for the best talent for years to come.