New Work describes a fundamental change in the world of work, triggered by digitalization, new technologies, automation and demographic change, among other things. For many companies, this means a realignment of the corporate structure in order to respond to the new requirements of the new working world and the needs of the employees.
Why companies need to deal with this topic
Digital networking and changing values are driving new work and making new demands on the job market. In order for a company to remain viable for the future, it is essential for it to deal with the new conditions. Money and status, for example, are not necessarily at the forefront of Generation Y. Instead, personal development and advancement, appreciation and meaningful work play an important role in choosing an employer these days. New Work is becoming more and more important and only those who are aware of this can bring about change, increase productivity and innovative strength in the company and ensure long-term employee satisfaction.
What opportunities and challenges does New Work bring with it?
The new demands placed on today's working world present companies with major challenges. On the corporate side, existing technical and organizational structures and values must be rethought in order to meet the basic idea of New Work and the desire for a modern working world. If a change of thinking takes place and the employees are actively involved in the structural change, this increases the acceptance for the change process and the advantages such as the desire for more freedom and flexibility come into play. In theory, this all sounds quite simple at first, but companies must weigh up carefully which new work strategy fits in with their corporate culture.
What do the new forms of New Work look like?
In order to do justice to the concept of New Work in organizations, change must take place at all levels of the company. The New Work model creates a new understanding of work.
Work processes need to be more flexible and working life has to be more needs-oriented, but also more efficient. This results in new forms of work for both employees and employers. The new forms of work demanded include flat hierarchies with more personal responsibility, mixed teams, job sharing, self-realization, flexibility, agile working methods, meaningful activities and a good work-life balance. The new development requires a new type of management style "New Leadership", in which classic hierarchy levels are replaced by more personal responsibility, self-organization and trust among employees. New Leadership, calls for a partnership and trusting cooperation in which the focus is on consulting and coaching employees at eye level.
How can New Work be successfully introduced in companies?
New Work has long ceased to be a buzzword and the world of work is set to change visibly. Many companies have to face change and are asking themselves which is the right way for their company to introduce the new working world. It should be noted that companies have different framework conditions and challenges, so there can be no off-the-peg solution when introducing New Work. What a successful introduction and implementation can look like depends first and foremost on the employees. To what extent are they prepared to support this change process? If management succeeds in winning over managers and employees for this transformation and changing the corporate culture, the topic of New Work opens up many opportunities and potential.
Our consulting services and how 4C can support you in introducing New Work
The introduction of New Work depends heavily on the corporate culture, and to meet the challenges of New Work, the introduction should be accompanied professionally. The implementation of New Work is a change project and, as with any transformation, requires a clear vision for the entire organization at all levels, support adapted to the needs of the organization and a realistic timetable. We will be happy to advise you on how to create the change into a new work environment. If you want to know more about the successful introduction and implementation of New Work, please contact us.
