The Perfect Storm: Navigating The Future Of Work In The Digital Age

Community The Perfect Storm: Navigating The Future Of Work In The Digital Age Ana SmithSeptember 12, 2023 Bigstock {"adCodes": [{"desktop": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e", "display": true, "mobile": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e", "new_amp": "\u003camp-ad width=336 height=280\n type=\"doubleclick\"\n data-slot=\"/22278042776,22664312254/wit/wit_content\"\n data-multi-size=\"300x250\"\u003e\n\u003c/amp-ad\u003e", "order": 0, "tablet": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"}, {"desktop": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e", "display": true, "mobile": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e", "new_amp": "\u003camp-ad width=336 height=280\n type=\"doubleclick\"\n data-slot=\"/22278042776,22664312254/wit/wit_content\"\n data-multi-size=\"300x250\"\u003e\n\u003c/amp-ad\u003e", "order": 1, "tablet": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"}, {"desktop": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e", "display": true, "mobile": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e", "new_amp": "\u003camp-ad width=336 height=280\n type=\"doubleclick\"\n data-slot=\"/22278042776,22664312254/wit/wit_content\"\n data-multi-size=\"300x250\"\u003e\n\u003c/amp-ad\u003e", "order": 2, "tablet": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"}], "adsOrder": [2]}

In mid-June, in the Leadership Table Talk Series, I had the privilege of interviewing Colin Corby—my friend, technologist, and CEO of Technology Wellbeing LTD, who over the last 20 years has been very studious of the influence of technology in the psychology of the mind, and where this might lead us. In this article, I summarize the key nuggets from our discussion.

In recent years, the world of work has been buffeted by powerful winds of change. From the rapid advancement of technology to the unexpected consequences of a global pandemic, businesses and their employees face a landscape that’s shifting beneath their feet. The culmination of these factors creates what some may term a "perfect storm." The question is how do we navigate through it?

An Unsettling Landscape

The COVID-19 pandemic catapulted organizations into the future, forcing them to adapt quickly to remote and hybrid work models. While this pivot provided immediate solutions, it unearthed the fragility of our global economic structure. Such fragility was only exacerbated by global events like the war in Ukraine.

And just as the dust seemed to settle, newer challenges arose. Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) regulations, demographic shifts in the workplace, a mass exodus of experienced professionals (often termed the "Great Resignation"), and increasing reports of employee burnout became prominent. Toss in the projection by the World Economic Forum that by 2025 machines will equally share work tasks with humans, and it's clear: the future of work is daunting.

What’s the toll on employees? A 2021 Deloitte report pinpoints a surge in burnout, absenteeism, presenteeism, and labor turnover. The more ominous insight? An overwhelming feeling of isolation pervades 40% of U.S. workers.

Digital Culture: Logic Or Magic?

Bigstock

In this tumultuous scenario, the emphasis on digital culture cannot be overlooked. But what is it? Simply put, it's the intersection of technology, leadership, and employee interaction within an organization. With disruptive technologies constantly emerging, it's vital for organizations to ensure that their evolving digital culture aligns with core values.

Why does this matter? Three primary reasons:

Alignment with Organizational Values: Neglecting digital culture can result in a misalignment between an organization's core values and the behaviors adopted due to disruptive digital transformations.

Preserving Connections: Digital transformation has the potential to rupture the essential connections between employees. In an era of remote work, it's vital to restore and strengthen these networks.

Futureproofing: As technology takes on a more significant role, its interactions with humans will play a pivotal part in shaping an organization's culture.

Ethical/Human Digital Transformation™: The Road Ahead Bigstock

As we brace for the future, we believe the answer lies in what we term Ethical/Human Digital Transformation™. This concept revolves around three pillars:

Connectedness: In an era defined by loneliness, organizations need to foster genuine connections among employees. This goes beyond virtual meetings and entails a deep sense of shared purpose and mutual respect.

Autonomy: Employee autonomy is pivotal. Organizations need to ensure that their systems and tools empower employees rather than constrain them.

Flexibility: The future is uncertain. Ensuring that both the organization and its employees are adaptable is key to navigating unexpected challenges.

Embracing AI, But Retaining The Human Touch Bigstock

While AI promises a boost in GDP and efficiency, it also brings forth challenges. The automation potential of AI might threaten jobs, requiring leaders to adapt and innovate. The intertwining of human-AI dynamics requires vigilance to avoid "psychological entanglement," where the lines between human judgment and AI outputs blur.

Leaders should be aware of AI's limitations. Its outputs, often based on training data, may sometimes be misleading. Hence, the emphasis should be on retaining human strengths like critical thinking, creativity, and genuine human connections.

In Conclusion

As the storm rages on, it's evident that the future of work hinges on striking a balance. Embracing technological advancements while upholding human values is the challenge ahead. Through proactive strategies and a human-centric approach, we can steer our organizations to calmer waters.

From Your Site Articles

• Executive Spotlight: What AI Means For The Future Of Work ›
• How AI & ChatGPT Will Impact The Job Search Process ›
• The Power Of Genuine Connection: Why AI Won't Secure Your Dream Job ›
• Executive Spotlight: How Artificial Intelligence (AI) Will Transform Management ›

Related Articles Around the Web

• Navigating the future of work ›
• Navigating the Future of Work: What to Expect in the Next Decade ›
• Future of Work | Navigating the Future of Remote Working | BCG ›

navigating the future of work {"customDimensions": {"1":"Executive Community, Ana Smith","3":"navigating the future of work, digital age, future of work, ai, artificial intelligence, colin corby, leadership, table talk, technology, employees, organizations, organizational values, connections, futureproofing, connectedness, autonomy, flexibility, automation, leaders, executives, human, technological advancements, digital transformation","2":"community","4":"09/12/2023"}, "post": {"split_testing": {}, "providerId": 0, "sections": [0, 544324100, 479660731, 473310812, 570046141, 473333499], "buckets": [], "authors": [21030904, 25006562]} } 8 Ways You're Being SHUT OUT Of The Hiring Process1-hour workshop to help job seekers figure out what's getting them tossed from the hiring processCover Letter 3 Tips For Overcoming Your Biggest Job Search FEARS Jenna ArcandSeptember 28, 2022 {"adCodes": [{"desktop": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e", "display": true, "mobile": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e", "new_amp": "\u003camp-ad width=336 height=280\n type=\"doubleclick\"\n data-slot=\"/22278042776,22664312254/wit/wit_content\"\n data-multi-size=\"300x250\"\u003e\n\u003c/amp-ad\u003e", "order": 0, "tablet": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"}, {"desktop": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e", "display": true, "mobile": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e", "new_amp": "\u003camp-ad width=336 height=280\n type=\"doubleclick\"\n data-slot=\"/22278042776,22664312254/wit/wit_content\"\n data-multi-size=\"300x250\"\u003e\n\u003c/amp-ad\u003e", "order": 1, "tablet": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"}, {"desktop": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e", "display": true, "mobile": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e", "new_amp": "\u003camp-ad width=336 height=280\n type=\"doubleclick\"\n data-slot=\"/22278042776,22664312254/wit/wit_content\"\n data-multi-size=\"300x250\"\u003e\n\u003c/amp-ad\u003e", "order": 2, "tablet": "\u003cdiv class=\u0027rblad-wit_content\u0027\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"}], "adsOrder": [2]} Are you terrified of screwing up a job interview? Does the thought of writing a cover letter horrify you? Are you scared to network with others? What do you even say, anyway? If you're struggling to overcome your job search fears, this live event is for you.

We get it. Looking for work can be scary, especially if you’ve been at it for a long time and haven’t gotten any results.

Understanding which fears are getting in the way and how to overcome them will make all the difference. Sometimes you might not be aware of which obstacle is getting in the way of your goals. If you want to overcome these fears once and for all, we invite you to join us!

In this training, you’ll learn how to:

• Utilize strategies for coping with your job search fears
• Be confident in your job search—from writing your resume to networking
• Face your fears and move forward

Join our CEO, J.T. O'Donnell, and Director of Training Development & Coaching, Christina Burgio, for this live event on Wednesday, October 5th at 12 pm ET.

CAN'T ATTEND LIVE? That's okay. You'll have access to the recording and the workbook after the session!

Read moreShow lessjob search fears {"customDimensions": {"1":"Executive Community, Jenna Arcand","3":"live events, career events, j.t. o'donnell, jt o'donnell, christina burgio, career advice, career, career growth, professionals, job search, job seekers, job interview, job search tips, job search advice, interview, job interview tips, interview tips, job search fears, overcome job search fears, networking, cover letter, resume, writing a cover letter, job search strategy, job search help, looking for a job, unemployed","2":"cover-letter","4":"09/28/2022"}, "post": {"split_testing": {}, "providerId": 0, "sections": [0, 376490081, 562457120, 370480899, 376490053, 376489574, 376491143, 376489962, 404327439, 376489624, 479660731, 543270555, 473310813, 473333499], "buckets": [], "authors": [21030904, 19836096]} } Featured The Perfect Storm: Navigating The Future Of Work In The Digital Age {"customDimensions": {"1":"Executive Community, Ana Smith","3":"navigating the future of work, digital age, future of work, ai, artificial intelligence, colin corby, leadership, table talk, technology, employees, organizations, organizational values, connections, futureproofing, connectedness, autonomy, flexibility, automation, leaders, executives, human, technological advancements, digital transformation","2":"community","4":"09/12/2023"}, "post": {"split_testing": {}, "providerId": 0, "sections": [0, 544324100, 479660731, 473310812, 570046141, 473333499], "buckets": [], "authors": [21030904, 25006562]} } Now Hiring: Remote SysOps Engineer {"customDimensions": {"1":"Work It Daily, Kinsta \u00ae","3":"kinsta, hiring, remote jobs, remote work, remote workforce, remote companies hiring, remote companies 2021, sysops engineer, sysops engineer jobs","2":"popular","4":"05/18/2021"}, "post": {"split_testing": {}, "providerId": 0, "sections": [370480899, 545998439, 545998440, 473310812, 376489962, 526353713, 545658354, 548352055, 548352058, 543270555, 473333499, 473310813], "buckets": [], "authors": [19548593, 21891195]} } 3 Important Career Lessons Learned On And Off The Field {"customDimensions": {"1":"Executive Community, J.T. O'Donnell","3":"career change, entrepreneur, entrepreneurship, career, career challenges, overcoming career challenges, personal branding, personal development, professional development, professional growth, success, career success, pro athletes, tom brady, chris gronkowski, nfl, tiktok, social media strategy, social media, career growth","2":"popular","4":"02/10/2021"}, "post": {"split_testing": {}, "providerId": 0, "sections": [0, 370480899, 473333499, 376489962, 526353713, 376489624, 479660731], "buckets": [], "authors": [21030904, 19549412]} } How Ex-NFL Player, Chris Gronkowski, Is Using Social Media To Change Careers {"customDimensions": {"1":"Executive Community, J.T. O'Donnell","3":"2010, Barstool, camera phone, career growth and development, career growth opportunities, chrisgronkowski, cowboys, dallascowboys, dinner, football, free, gronkspike, iceshaker, investor, nfl, nflfootball, nflplayer, nflplayers, nflworkout, payday, rookie, salary, sharing, sharktank, tic toc, tic tok, tick tock, ticktock, tictok, tik tok, tiktok, tiktok.com, trade, trainingcamp, upload, video, video phone, weighin, youtube.com, \u0442\u0438\u043a \u0442\u043e\u043a, \u30c6\u30a3\u30c3\u30af\u30c8\u30c3\u30af, chris gronkowski","2":"popular","4":"01/29/2021"}, "post": {"split_testing": {}, "providerId": 0, "sections": [0, 370480899, 473333499, 526353713, 376489624, 479660731], "buckets": [], "authors": [21030904, 19549412]} }