The pandemic changed the world in many aspects – most importantly, it showed the world how weak and feeble the world economy is . Not long after the lockdowns were announced, many people around the globe lost their jobs, many were pushed to the edge of poverty, and those who were already below the poverty line continued facing the harsh circumstances that came with the economic damage.
This financial instability presented challenges and consequently, introduced the world to the gig economy and remote working. Many people took on odd jobs such as food and essentials delivery to keep their lives afloat but, now that the vaccines are here and rolling out, what is the future going to be like?
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Since the pandemic broke out and a lockdown was enforced, many people shifted to working from home with the help of digital platforms such as Zoom and Google Meet. Companies and institutions continued to manage and sail through. However, now industry leaders are envisioning a different scenario after the pandemic blows over. They believe that the workplaces will adopt a rather flexible approach to work and create a hybrid structure.
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There might be some naysayers regarding the idea of flexible structures regarding workplaces, but the truth is, the world might never be normal again. In fact, there will be a new normal that will dictate the lifestyles of people. For instance, after the vaccination, how many people will be comfortable with spending their time away from their families? How many people would consider taking public transport once the offices will be open?
On the other, some employers are also benefitting from the situation. They save up on the number of bills that come in with running an entire workplace. From rent to electricity bills to the miscellaneous bills that add up to hundreds and thousands of bucks.
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Looking at the picture being painted, there is a distinct weightage on both ends. There is no confirmation on what the future of workplaces would look like and which route they will select, but if there is anything certain, that will be the role of the state government. The government will have the power to either encourage the workforce to resume their work as it was pre-pandemic or adopt the change brought by the pandemic.
Whether the mainstream workforce goes back to normal or not, from the looks of it, there’s a major shift towards the gig economy and people leaning towards individual work. Perhaps a taste of freedom was all that was needed to alter the workforce forever.
