As the host of the New Work Stage at Fifteen Seconds, Europe's Leading Future Conference, held in Graz, Austria, last week, I had the privilege of moderating an extraordinary event that delved into the future of work.
The stage brought together thought leaders, experts, and professionals from diverse industries to discuss crucial questions and provide valuable insights into the post-modern world of work. In this blog, I will share the key lessons learned from hosting the New Work Stage and shed light on the exciting prospects for the future of work.
Find Your Work Best Friend:
During the New Work Stage, Mei Ton, Chief People Officer of Ethic, shared a captivating story about the transformative power of finding a best friend at work. Mei's narrative emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with colleagues who can guide us, offer support during challenging times, and help us rediscover our paths. Having a trusted confidant at work is invaluable, as it fosters personal growth, provides a sounding board for ideas, and contributes to overall well-being.
Engaging Youth through Participation as a Service (PaaS):
One of the important topics discussed on the New Work Stage was youth engagement in the workforce. Rebekka Dober, the founder of YEP Austria, introduced the concept of Participation as a Service (PaaS). This innovative approach emphasizes involving young employees directly in decision-making, enabling active engagement and building trust. By empowering youth and valuing their input, companies can tap into their unique perspectives, fuel innovation, and create a more inclusive work environment.
The Rise of Boring Companies:
Paul Campbell, Co-founder of Tito, challenged conventional notions by advocating for a different approach to success. He presented the idea that so-called "boring" companies focused on delivering excellence to clients can thrive. Campbell highlighted the significance of streamlining operations and minimizing unnecessary meetings. These companies can consistently deliver exceptional results by staying focused on core activities and maintaining efficiency.
Cultivating a Culture of Belonging:
A key aspect of the future of work is creating a culture where employees feel a strong sense of belonging. During the New York Stage, Olga Skouteli from Fidelity emphasized the importance of welcoming employees, getting to know them, and providing support. Building trust, fostering openness, and recognizing each individual's value are essential elements of a thriving work culture. When employees feel connected to the mission, business, and team, it inspires collaboration and innovation and drives meaningful outcomes.
Rehumanizing Work through Balanced Brain Engagement:
As a neuroscientist, I shared insights on rehumanizing work by engaging both sides of the brain. Individuals and organizations can tap into their full potential by striking a balance between analytical and logical thinking and creativity and intuition. Encouraging long-term thinking, rewarding innovation, and embracing a holistic approach to problem-solving can lead to improved outcomes and positively impact business, society, and individual well-being. Hosting the New Work Stage at Fifteen Seconds was a remarkable experience that shed light on the exciting future of work. The key lessons learned emphasized the power of meaningful connections, the importance of youth engagement through participation, the potential of streamlined processes in driving success, the significance of cultivating a culture of belonging, and the benefits of balanced brain engagement. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of work, incorporating these insights can help shape a future where collaboration, innovation, and employee well-being take center stage, propelling organizations to new heights of success. PS - I wrote this blog with the help of ChatGBT. Of course.