1.Wearables

Gartner predicts that sales of wearable devices are about to reach USD 322.6 million by the end of 2017. Wearables offer utmost convenience, as executives do not have to lead sedentary lives anymore. They offer a completely mobile and hands-free experience, which leads them to attend calls and emails without being chained to their desks. Additional features such as access to music and connectivity with multiple devices are boosting further sales. Gartner predicts that wearable security for businesses will take shape and form with the help of wearable processors and biometric authentication of the devices.

2.BYOD Policies

In 2017 more than 50% of businesses have some sort of BYOD policy in place. With the cost of IT estates escalating and newer software and technology being invented everyday, it makes sense for businesses to allow their employees to bring in their own devices.

Also by allowing employees to bring in their own devices, employers big and small alike are allowing them the convenience to work from and use technology that they are familiar with and excel at, giving way to a richer end product.

3.Companies Investing In Bettering Employee Experiences

From offering training to allowing employees to book their own business travel options, employers are letting employees decide what works best for them. Firms that form the Big 4 – EY, Deloitte, KPMG, PwC have their eyes set on strong diversity and inclusiveness programs, and small and medium businesses alike are following suit. Training is not restricted to the skill-sets required for employees to perform their jobs well, but are targeted for the holistic development of the employees.

4.Annual Reviews Converted To Quarterly Or Even Monthly Counselling

Workforce management is changing. Leaders across levels are being compelled to review their KPIs and even the way that employee evaluations take place. Instead of having generic KPIs for the entire organization or its verticals, companies are now considering customized and skill-driven evaluations thanks to the growing popularity and efficiency of workforce management software.

Instead of annual reviews where the employee is handed a judgement, it is turning into a bi-annual and even a quarterly process in some cases, where performance is reviewed and constructive feedback provided at regular intervals.

5.Wellness Will Feature A Key Role In Business As Usual

Companies are investing in preventive care more and more both to improve the productivity of employees, as well as save on future costs. With employers paying more than 50% of the healthcare costs in the USA, it is not unheard of that they would rather pay for preventive wellness programs than pay for the recovery of their employees. Slowly, the APAC region too is learning to adopt this trend and is investing in the right infrastructure that will help employees work better.

Awfis offers shared workspaces that are ergonomically designed and help employees work in a space that enhances their productivity.