Future of Work — Addressing Workforce Isolation and Creating Connectedness

Future of Work — Addressing Workforce Isolation and Creating Connectedness

This IDC Market Perspective discusses how the elements of IDC's Future of Work Framework affect worker isolation. Flexible work models by their nature can cause workers to feel isolated, but there are ample technologies and people tools that can connect workers to each other and reduce disconnectedness. Bringing the workforce into the office is not a guaranteed cure for office loneliness. Being nearer to other people increases the chances of connections, but loneliness was already a persistent problem before the COVID-19 pandemic. Intentional efforts by managers and leaders are required to address worker isolation."While loneliness is a human condition that all of us experience, it does not have to be something we spend a long time experiencing, especially at work. Due to the percentage of time we spend at work, we should work in a culture that is full of connection opportunities for workforce friendships to blossom. For employers, the investment in building workforce community is well worth the productivity gains and the way it supports the purpose of organizations." — Bill Latshaw, research director, Worldwide Business Consulting Services, IDC

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