Podcast ¦ Informing Choices: Shifting Attitudes Towards Work – What Modern Workers Want with Cat Barnard

Summary

This podcast episode explores the changing attitudes towards work and what is driving these shifts. The impact of major global events, such as the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, has significantly influenced how people view work. The erosion of job stability, growing wage inequality, and the impact of technology have all played a role in shaping these changing attitudes. The podcast discusses both optimistic and pessimistic scenarios for work by 2030 and highlights the importance of trust between employers and employees.

Key Points

• Major global events such as the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic have reshaped societal attitudes towards work.
• Worker preferences for flexible and remote working were on the rise even before the pandemic hit.
• The growing gap between the rich and the rest of the population has led to increased scrutiny of wage inequality and a questioning of why individuals should work for companies that contribute to this wealth disparity.
• Technological advancements, particularly the internet, have increased transparency and choice for workers in terms of where and how they work.
• The increasing trend of job insecurity and the diminishing level of job permanence has put more power into the hands of workers, leading to a shift in the employer-employee relationship.

Key Statistics

• The richest 10% of people globally owned 76% of all global wealth.
• The average length of tenure on permanent work contracts has been decreasing.

Key Takeaways

• The 2008 financial crisis had a significant impact on job stability and worker attitudes towards work.
• The growing wage inequality between the rich and the rest of the population has led to questions about the value of working for companies that contribute to this wealth disparity.
• The internet and technological advancements have increased transparency and choice for workers, allowing them to have more control over where and how they work.
• The trend of job insecurity and the diminishing level of job permanence has shifted the power dynamic in the employer-employee relationship.
• The future of work could involve candidates interviewing potential employers to ensure alignment with their values and treatment.
• The changing attitudes towards work present both optimistic and pessimistic scenarios for the future of work.
• Optimistic outcome: A future where work is purpose-driven, with a focus on societal impact and meaningful contributions.
• Pessimistic outcome: A future where work continues to prioritize profit over people, exacerbating wage inequality and job insecurity.
• Trust between employers and employees is crucial to the success and satisfaction of workers.
• Youthful generations are increasingly questioning the status quo and seeking work-life balance and flexibility.
• The impact of major global events and societal shifts should be considered when exploring the changing attitudes towards work.
• Organizations should take practical steps to adapt to these changes and prepare for the future of work.