In the rapidly evolving landscape of professional communication, employers are facing a paradigm shift in the expectations of their workforce. The pace of change has caught some leaders off guard, leaving certain organizations trailing behind the curve.
The need of the hour is for employers to embrace a more informal and swift mode of communication with their employees and potential hires. This shift is crucial to cut through the clutter of the modern workplace, reminding individuals that they are part of a community of people, not just a distant organization. To enhance their ability to attract and retain talent, employers must undergo a communication reset aligned with this new normal.
One significant change is the reduced face-to-face interaction and real-time communication among colleagues, especially with the surge in remote work. Asynchronous communication, often spanning different time zones, has become the norm. Employers must recognize the implications of this shift, where virtual conversations replace traditional in-person meetings. Additionally, virtual interviews and internal meetings are grappling with the challenge of shortened attention spans, with the average screen attention span now hovering around 47 seconds.
The widespread use of mobile devices adds another layer to the communication landscape. With 85% of Americans owning smartphones, professionals are increasingly relying on mobile devices for work-related activities. However, the abundance of content on smartphones poses a distraction risk, competing for attention away from the watchful eyes of employers.
The aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic has introduced unprecedented volatility into the labor market. Job uncertainties, fewer postings in certain sectors, and an aging workforce contribute to this volatility. A Korn Ferry report even predicts that over 85 million jobs could go unfilled by 2030 due to a shortage of skilled workers.
In this evolving scenario, the expectations of today's workforce regarding communication have shifted. Three key expectations stand out: communication should be human and easy to understand, delivered on mobile phones, and accompanied by multiple reminders for important work-related events.
To engage and retain employees effectively, employers must align with these expectations. A survey of CHROs by The Conference Board revealed that 56% considered attracting and retaining workers a priority in 2024, with 80% emphasizing the retention of existing workers. Implementing mobile-friendly communication practices now positions companies to address staffing shortages with quality talent and reduce attrition.
Leaders can navigate this new normal of workplace communication by taking proactive steps. Content should prioritize brevity, adopting a conversational tone over formal legalese. Seeking regular feedback from candidates and employees ensures the effectiveness of communication strategies.
Leveraging technology, especially SMS messaging solutions, enhances mobile communication. While many companies communicate with customers via text, extending this practice to candidates and employees is often overlooked. Text messages prove effective for short and timely communications, aligning with the preference for brevity in today's fast-paced environment.
Recognizing the importance of multiple reminders in a world filled with distractions, employers should incorporate this practice for crucial work-related matters. Studies have shown that text message reminders can significantly boost attendance rates.
In embracing these new communication norms, employers can dismantle barriers and achieve better outcomes for all stakeholders in the workplace. Keeping pace with evolving expectations ensures that organizations stay competitive in attracting and retaining top talent.
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