Hybrid Work May Be the Best Middle Ground

Many have felt a yearning to return to a face-to-face environment in the office. Yet, this is not always safe and practical, depending on where you are in the world. Remote work definitely has its advantages but, if you lack the discipline, it’s easy to slack off, get distracted, and lose track of time altogether. Hybrid work – a mix of remote work and in the office work – may be a better fit for you and your organization. Without this strategy, it remains likely that employees will want to leave for more flexible work options. People want a sense of belonging and this gives them some meaning that they may be seeking.

The Gig Economy is Stepping Things Up

Another interesting way businesses have adapted is through the rapid acceleration of the gig economy. Gig work saved entire industries when it came to restaurants, but it goes far beyond food delivery and ride sharing. If you are looking to increase your pay, flexibility, and time for other things in life, joining the gig economy may be just the thing for you at this juncture of your life. It is estimated that, by 2027, almost half of the United States population will have experienced some type of gig work.

Becoming a Data-Driven Organization

Much of the workforce makes its decisions based on emotion and not enough data. In fact, 73 percent of data within organizations is never analyzed. It’s time to make better data-driven decisions by stepping up the game from within – make sure that you are using analytics packages like Google (News - Alert) Analytics. When you’re ready, it may be time to even upgrade to Google Analytics 360, which you may need consulting help to maximize the benefits.

Showing Emotional intelligence, Not Just IQ

An often overlooked and underappreciated realm of skills found within high performers is what some would refer to as soft skills or emotional intelligence (EQ). The world needs empathy and understanding social situations more than ever, and it’s worth your time to be adept in these matters. It even matters to your bottom line and career trajectory, as 90 percent of high performing employees exhibit some form of emotional intelligence.

Winning at Local Landing Pages

Another reality is that, if your business relies on getting people to a physical location, the coveted Google 3-pack of Google search and map results are going to be key to your digital presence. Many people will find your business through the use and optimization of local landing pages. It isn’t easy, but with the proper technical work, content, and SEO strategy, you can get your business there.

We’re not out of the woods yet by any standard and what we have now may be our new normal. Being flexible and diving into new skills may bring us to a better standard and balance that we achieved before the pandemic. Let’s take this time to embrace positive change for us and those around us.