Leadership Challenges for 2022

Next year is sure to have its share of challenging moments, but with the pandemic still part of the equation, there are some things that will be a part of your 2022 that you haven’t faced in years before. Take a look at this list to see what’s in store.

Avenues of Connection are Scarce

Whether you use Zoom, WebEx, Microsoft Teams or some other platform, virtual meetings just aren’t the same as in-person interactions. And the lack of human connection has taken its toll on employees from coast to coast. As 2022 approaches, it’s a good time to take a step back and reflect on how you might create opportunities for better connections between your people. A simple place to start is to ask for more feedback – maybe even consider an employee satisfaction platform like OfficeVibe – and then, most importantly, listen and act on the ideas you get. Your culture will depend on it.

More of the Great Resignation

If you’re having a hard time finding talent, unfortunately, that is likely to continue into next year. There doesn’t seem to be any immediate relief from the pandemic-driven minimizing of available talent. Korn Ferry did a recent survey of professionals that showed 55% of businesses think the great resignation will continue into next year, and maybe not surprisingly, 31% of those surveyed said they will leave their job even without anything better lined up. These are dim prospects for those struggling to balance resources day-to-day. So, keep an eye out for talent in unusual places, you may need all the help you can get.

Career Nomads are Everywhere

Remote work is no longer a novelty. And people are loving the flexibility and freedom that come with working from home. The previously mentioned Korn Ferry survey also showed that 32% of business professionals have no desire to ever sit in a cubicle full-time again. In addition, older members of the workforce from Baby Boomers to Gen X are retiring in droves, planning to change jobs or simply work for themselves. In 2022, it will be critical for you to think openly and be flexible with your remote workers. Keeping them happy could be the secret to all your future success.

There are definitely many things that will make next year a challenge for businesses, but make sure you do right by your people and consider these three management challenges you will likely face as we make our way into Q1.