We’ve covered the significant changes in the modern workplace at length, with remote and hybrid structures being the new norm. This is not the only drastic workplace change. Employees themselves have undergone a radical transformation and now desire and expect something different from their work experience. This week, we learn about the need for authenticity, direct communication, emotions, and humanity in the workplace to support the perspective gained as a result of the pandemic and this new employee mindset.

When Authenticity Means Conflict: Towards a Truly Inclusive Organization

82 percent of employees believe it’s important for their organization to view them as a whole person according to a recent survey. But only 45 percent of respondents believe their employer views them as more than an employee. Authentic behavior enhances employees’ happiness and productivity at work as they act in accordance with their values and principles. On the other hand, authenticity can also lead to conflict if there are mismatched values within your team.  In order for authentic behavior to be appreciated by others in a group, it should be aligned with the values and norms of the social context, like the team or organization. Dive into the ways that authentic behavior can positively and negatively impact your business and learn ways to foster alignment among your employees.

Why Being Blunt With Your Team Is Actually A Good Thing

Say what you mean, and mean what you say. Being direct in the workplace is a necessity. Treading lightly in order to avoid conflict does not benefit anyone. Being blunt does not mean being rude or oblivious to feelings. It simply means clearly stating the issue in an effort to correct or solve the problem and move forward proactively and productively. This is kinder to your team and helps to avoid conflict in the long run. Here are a few strategies to make sure you’re communicating directly, respectfully and constructively. 

All the Feels: How Companies Can Benefit from Employees’ Emotions

New research shows that there is a great benefit in expressing emotions in the workplace. When teams have supportive environments where members share their feelings and empathetically respond to each other, they can increase their ability to solve problems, elaborate information, and generate ideas. The findings offer a sharp departure from old-school beliefs that professional detachment is best. Having healthy emotional exchanges at work allows for better ideas and insights and produces more creative outcomes. Learn more about the study to understand how companies can benefit from employees’ emotions.

“The Great Resignation” Continues to Elevate Our Need for Humanity at Work

The pandemic has shifted employee values, aspirations, and priorities. They are seeking a radically different employee experience—one that offers more authenticity, trust, and humanity. In this new era of remote and hybrid work culture, employees are not asking for less connection, they are asking for genuine connection. This requires a mindset change: companies must consider their employees as valuable as their customers—the people they strive to win, keep, and win back. Learn why this is important and how to take the first steps.