November 2022
Workers are switching between more apps and software than ever, and the sheer number of programs is pushing some employees towards burnout. Companies deployed 89 different apps on average last year, up from 58 in 2015 (at large employers, that figure is as high as 187), and reports show that many exiting workers are explicitly citing frustrations with technology as a reason for quitting. (Bloomberg)
A new remote work phenomenon has taken hold: “Productivity paranoia,” where leaders fear that productivity is falling due to employees not working when WFH (even though most activity metrics have increased amidst remote work). Managers need to pivot from worrying about whether employees are working enough, to helping them prioritize their workloads and focus on the tasks that are most important. (The Wall Street Journal)
The gap in starting salaries between bachelor’s and master’s degree holders has shrunk to the smallest on record, with master’s degrees now conferring a 22.5% premium, down from 31.9% in 2016. The growth in alternative post-secondary certifications, coupled with a tight labor market in which many companies have reduced their education requirements, have gradually eroded demand for master’s degree holders. (Bloomberg)
Studies show that professionals spend over one-third of their working hours in meetings and, despite employees saying they cause burnout, there are no signs that this figure is on the decline. Rethinking what percentage of the work day is dedicated to meetings is long overdue, particularly with many meetings taking place over video call. (Otter.ai)
Among both job seekers and employers, the demand for fully remote roles seems to have declined precipitously from August into September. Whether this is the start of a seasonal trend (an annual end-of-summer transition back into the office), or a reversal of a long-term shift towards remote work remains to be seen; in either case, managers and executives should continue offering flexibility and options when it comes to talent attraction and retention. (Flexa Careers)
Fully 81% of workers report that they will be looking for workplaces that support mental health in the future, a key insight for employers considering whether or not to implement new wellness initiatives. Supporting employees’ health, wellness, and work-life balance isn’t only crucial for maintaining engagement and productivity, these benefits can also make-or-break hiring and recruitment campaigns, particularly during a historically tight labor market. (American Psychological Association)
Working in a second language seems to be becoming increasingly common as companies take advantage of remote work to hire more international talent. Managers looking to cultivate an international or multilingual workforce should understand the challenges that come with it, and work to both help bridge language gaps and ensure proper support for employees working in a non-native language. (Worklife)
College students expect to make $103,880 in their first job, but the average starting salary is actually only $55,260, a disconnect that hiring managers must contend with when negotiating offers with recent graduates. Recent inflationary pressures may be behind this dramatic growth in salary expectations – in 2019, the gap between average and expected starting salary was only around $10,000. (Clever)