5 Culture Trends for 2022 for Retail Companies
Culture Trend #1: Flexibility rules
Whether it’s boosting health and safety protocols in stores, going 100% remote for office staff, or adopting a hybrid work model for store employees, the reality is that companies must now offer more flexibility in the workplace. It may seem remote work is tough for retail environments; however, 59% of retails employees find flexibility in when they work remotely to be very or extremely important.
Thankfully, flexibility applies to more than just where, or even when, employees work. It also means letting employees have a voice in deciding which type of work they do onsite vs. remotely. Research from the O.C. Tanner Institute’s 2022 Global Culture Report found tasks that require focus or creative thinking are easier to do at home, while tasks requiring collaboration and connection are easier and more productive in the office.
Moving forward, employees expect increased flexibility in many aspects of their work lives and will change jobs, if necessary, to get it. But when employees have flexibility in how they work, outcomes improve:
- 41% higher likelihood of engagement
- 77% higher likelihood of retention
- 41% higher likelihood of being a Promoter on the eNPS scale
WHAT ORGANISATIONS CAN DO:
To successfully incorporate flexibility, focus on three key areas:
- The retail sector is embracing change and adopting innovative models that make remote work possible for more employees. As an organisation, find ways you can offer options for retail employees to work in jobs as online personal shoppers or customer helpdesks. Likewise, make sure the in-person work environment is the best it can be for those who prefer to work onsite.
- Provide opportunities for connection. In the office, create physical space and allow time to collaborate and interact socially. For remote employees, be sure to check in often and use tools like Culture Cloud to help people stay connected to their teams and the organisation.
- Have a solid career development strategy for remote and hybrid workers. It can be difficult for employees and leaders to identify growth opportunities from a distance. Ensure employees can practice new skills, work on special projects, and see their progress.