What SME leaders should do to create the future workplace

The future of work probably will involve flexibility, and remote or hybrid work models have become increasingly prevalent.

For a couple of years now, HR folks and CEOs have been talking of all sorts of possibilities for the future of work in general and workplaces in particular. None of them covered issues specifically for SMEs.

Creating a workplace for the future of work should be an imperative goal for SME owners who want to build a progressive organisation. As the landscape of work and workplaces continually evolves, SMEs need to adapt to emerging trends, technological advancements, and changing workforce expectations to remain competitive, and drive a productive and engaging workplace.

In this column, I want to explore the strategies and initiatives that SME leaders can implement to build a workplace tailored for the future of work.

Embrace remote and hybrid work models: The future of work probably will involve flexibility, and remote or hybrid work models have become increasingly prevalent not just in large businesses. SME owners should embrace these models, offering employees the option to work from anywhere, either part-time or full-time. This approach not only expands the talent pool by allowing recruitment from diverse geographical areas but also promotes work-life balance and enhances employee wellbeing.

As an example, take Buffer, a social media management platform, that operates with a fully remote team distributed across various countries. By leveraging remote work, Buffer attracts top talent and promotes a flexible work culture that aligns with the future of work.

Prioritise technology and digital transformation: Investing in technology is no more a good-to-have option for SMEs preparing for the future of work – it is most critical. Implementing digital tools and systems streamlines operations, enhances productivity, and facilitates seamless collaboration among remote or distributed workforce. Cloud-based solutions, project management tools, team communication platforms, and automation software are essential for optimising workflows and staying competitive in a digital-first environment.

Slack, a messaging platform for teams, enables real-time communication and collaboration among remote and in-office employees. Its user-friendly interface and integrations streamline workflows, driving efficient teamwork regardless of physical location.

Build a culture of continuous learning and upskilling: The pace of technological advancements necessitates continuous learning and upskilling among employees. SME owners should invest in training programmes, workshops, and online courses to equip their workforce with the skills needed for the evolving job roles. By nurturing a culture of learning, SMEs empower employees to adapt to new technologies and industry developments, ensuring the company remains agile and competitive.

'Coursera for Business' provides access to a vast array of online courses and certifications. SMEs can leverage platforms like Coursera to offer employees opportunities for upskilling in areas such as data analytics, digital marketing, or programming. And the costs are much lower overall.

Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI): Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just buzzwords or trivial as Elon Mustk tweets, but are integral components of a workplace geared for the future. SME owners should actively promote diversity in their hiring practices, create inclusive policies, and drive an environment where employees from diverse backgrounds feel valued and empowered. Diverse teams bring different perspectives, leading to innovation and better problem-solving.

Ben & Jerry's, a well-known ice cream company, prioritises DEI initiatives and social justice causes. They have implemented inclusive hiring practices and supported various social causes, demonstrating a commitment to diversity and equity in the workplace.

Adopt agile work methodologies: Agile work methodologies are essential for SMEs to adapt quickly to market changes and customer demands. By adopting agile practices such as Scrum or Kanban, SMEs can promote cross-functional collaboration, iterative development, and faster decision-making processes. These methodologies facilitate adaptability, enabling businesses to respond promptly to evolving market trends.

Spotify uses agile methodologies to bring forth innovation and collaboration. Their squads and tribes structure allows teams to work autonomously while staying aligned with the company's overall goals, building agility and innovation.

Prioritise employee wellbeing and mental health: Employee well-being and mental health have gained significant attention in the workplace. SME owners must prioritise creating a supportive environment that promotes work-life balance, reduces burnout, and addresses mental health concerns. Flexible schedules, mental health resources, wellness programmes, and supportive policies contribute to a healthier and more engaged workforce.

Pre2Doc offers mindfulness and meditation resources to companies as part of their employee wellbeing programmes. SMEs can partner with such platforms to support their employees' mental health.

SME leaders play a pivotal role in shaping workplaces for the future of work. By embracing the above steps, SMEs can create a workplace environment that is adaptable, innovative, and conducive to sustained growth in an ever-evolving marketplace.