Working from home may have been an adjustment at the start of the pandemic lockdown, but according to Cisco’s Workforce of the Future survey, employees want to keep hold of many positives that emerged in our new way of working. Increased autonomy (66%) and working well as a dispersed team (62%) are two main benefits; plus 65% want to keep hold of faster decision-making.

Workforce of the Future, a Cisco commissioned survey which polled 10,000 respondents globally, including close to 1,100 in the UAE, asked office-based employees for their expectations of employers from 2021 onwards. Results show that employees in the UAE see this as a watershed moment, challenging culture norms around the workplace. 

Even though only 4% of those surveyed worked from home most of the time before the lockdown, now an overwhelming majority hope to keep this increased autonomy. One size will not fit all, as 80% want greater ownership in defining how and when they use office space – blending between being office-based and working remotely.

Reflecting on the last six months, two thirds (67%) now have a greater appreciation of the benefits and challenges of working from home. Positive changes were afoot, as leaders showed increased trust in their teams to do their jobs well (47%). Employees were able to better balance life around work, with 67% incorporating more exercise into their daily routine. In a similar spirit, 53% want to continue travelling less and use that time more productively.

Commenting on the UAE’s results, Shukri Eid, Managing Director – Gulf Region, Cisco said: “The pandemic and the rapid adoption of digital technologies is fundamentally changing the nature of work. We are seeing new patterns emerge; people want choice and flexibility, teams are more distributed, and a company’s culture is more important than ever. Collaboration technology that uses AI, environmental sensors, and advanced analytics are all critical to empowering employees, keeping teams connected and productive in every location, whilst increasing workplace safety.”

Collaboration technologies and digital skills – a solid foundation for business resilience and growth

If given the chance to be CEO for a day, employees would prioritise embedding effective communication and collaboration, above everything else.

For this to happen, 73% of employees believe businesses need to provide the workforce with similar technology at home as in the office. Moreover, 72% think more training on technology and digital skills will be fundamental to business success in 2021.

Employees in the UAE believe the 2021 budget priorities for their business should be investing in the technologies needed for remote work and bringing in technology to make the office a safer space from a health perspective.