Technology has brought the world closer, changing the way we live our lives now than, say, even 5 years back. The change is obvious in our approach towards work and the culture followed by a vast majority of our workplaces.
Imagine the numerous perks that your workplace offers. You enjoy flexible timings. The fact that geography is no longer a barrier is evident from the growing number of the workforce who prefer telecommuting and co-working to ensure that work meets life. You have lunch according to your convenience. You take an adequate number of breaks to return to work with a fresh mind, realizing that you are accountable for your tasks. All this, but not at the cost of productivity. On the contrary, these benefits ensure employee satisfaction that contributes to enhanced efficiency at work.
Traditional work culture, on the other hand, had not been as flexible as this. Right from the time for reaching the workplace, the way of addressing seniors to other parameters of work culture then, there were undisputable norms that couldn’t be overridden. Gradually, the importance of seamlessly integrating work into the conveniences and plans of our personal lives acted as a motivation for innovation. This introduced a drastic change in the way we work today.
Here’s a peek into some of the contrasts in work culture, then and now.
Addressing Seniors: Formal Vs Informal
Remember addressing your seniors as ‘Sir’ or ‘Ma’am’? There is a huge chance that you never have. You call them by their first names and what’s more, you even give them nicknames. However, calling your seniors by name was unimaginable even a few years back. Today, while some industries may be slower in adapting to this new work culture, it is gradually catching up with the rest. The informality builds camaraderie among teammates across levels and breaks down barriers, making work a positive experience.
Work from office Vs Flexible locations of work
Flexibility is the buzzword now and understandably so. Office spaces are increasingly becoming more receptive to the concept of ‘Work from Home’, freelancing and remote working. We are far ahead of days when operating from office was the only option because the other alternatives were an alien concept. A wide range of media for communication and better connectivity is making this trend a reality. As a result, companies are also exploring these possibilities to ensure employee satisfaction and hire from a larger talent pool. If your work productivity improves, the location of work does not matter. Does it?
9– to –5 Work Hours Vs Flexi Timings
Rigid 9-to-5 working hours is rapidly being replaced by flexible work hours. This is apparent from co-working spaces becoming a preferred option for many – companies and freelancers alike. This helps employees manage work according to their convenience. Who wouldn’t encourage flexible working hours if that improves work productivity without compromising on lives outside work? That way, companies and employees, both, get what they want.
Fixed Lunch Break Vs Flexi Lunch Time
Taking frequent breaks between tasks has become an integral part of our work schedules. In fact, frequent breaks are encouraged now. It gives us the time to stretch and take a break from staring at our computer screen, both of which are a boon for our health. It is also an opportunity to take our minds off work and come back rejuvenated. 9-to-5 work hours, which usually offered one break at a fixed time and for a particular time period, are becoming a story of the past.
Other Factors: Rigid Vs Flexible
Workplaces have moved beyond endorsing a culture where employees are appreciated for their ability to work without taking breaks or focusing on anything other than work. Discussions that do not concern work were discouraged. Listening to music or reading was a strict no-no. Workplaces are experiencing an apparent shift in this context too. While some workplaces have no qualms about their employees listening to music through earphones, some others have no restrictions from them playing music on high volume. Fun activities are organized and active participation in these events is appreciated. Co-working spaces ensure a vibrant work culture that enables co-workers to network with like-minded individuals, along with a host of other opportunities that help them in growing, both personally and professionally.
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