In 2022, the International Labour Organization (ILO) published a report that analyzed how the pandemic impacted the workplace in Africa. Overall, remote and hybrid working trends have had a positive impact on the continent’s productivity, technological innovation, agility and flexibility. Even though trends in Africa are in line with global trends shaping the future of innovation, there are some important differences.
The report highlights noteworthy trends that should be more widely discussed as the world moves into a post-pandemic stage. It encourages business leaders to decide whether and how to move ahead with remote and hybrid working arrangements. We wanted to draw attention to some of the report’s most important findings. Business leaders should take findings into consideration as they begin strategizing for the future of work.
The report highlights noteworthy trends that should be more widely known and discussed as the world moves into a post-pandemic stage that will doubtlessly require business leaders to decide whether and how to move ahead with remote and hybrid working arrangements. We wanted to draw attention to some of the report’s most important findings and encourage business leaders to take them into consideration as they begin strategizing for the future of work.
Digital, Communication, Innovation and Collaboration Skills are Priorities
Although companies are struggling to pay for ongoing reskilling and upskilling, there is rising consensus about which skills are priorities – digital, communication, innovation and collaboration. Around 40% of companies surveyed placed these four skills sets at the top of their lists. Digital training courses have reached broad adoption, and continue to play an important role in shaping the future of work across the continent.
Productivity Improved or at Worst Stayed the Same
Productivity gains, driven by process digitization, physical space re-organization and increased worker dedication, were reported in almost half the companies surveyed and most rampant in-service enterprises. Overall, companies reported shifting focus on output rather than hours worked, which has helped to continue to boost productivity gains.
Flexibility and Adaptability are on the Rise
Companies adopted more flexible working arrangements to avoid redundancies, while only outsourcing work that required special skills not available internally. Overall, the workforce became more flexible to maintain employment and boost productivity.
These trends are not disappearing – and in fact – they are playing an even more important role in shaping the economies of the post-pandemic era in Africa. Jobkast is helping the most innovative companies around the world navigate the future of work by hiring talent without borders.
