Microsoft urges flexibility, inclusion to address hybrid work challenges

Nairobi, Kenya, Nov 23 – Microsoft has urged businesses to consider flexibility, culture, and inclusion as part of their hybrid work strategies in order to ensure the success of the new world of work in 2022.

According to Ibrahim Youssry, Regional General Manager for the Middle East, and Africa Multi-Country Region at Microsoft, companies that adopt such interventions will have a significant impact on who stays, who leaves, and who seeks to join different teams.

While speaking at the virtual Microsoft 365 Summit: Future of Hybrid Work event, Youssry explained that companies must approach the next phase of work carefully.

“How you shape your business culture going forward, what you do to attract and retain talent, how you respond to changes in your working environment, and how you approach future innovation will all be key to success in the coming years,” noted Youssry.

The recommendations came in the wake of new findings which revealed that approximately 40 percent of the global workforce is considering leaving their current jobs by the end of 2021.

The 2021 Work Trend Index Report which was conducted among 30 000 workers from 31 countries, revealed that, while flexible work is here to stay, the majority of the respondents reported difficulty in dealing with hybrid work.

Microsoft has urged organizations to find out from their employees their best strategies that will enable them to be as efficient and productive as possible.

He noted that employees must be presented with opportunities to brainstorm, collaborate, and share ideas – no matter where they are located

“It’s critical to invest in strategies and technologies that bridge the gap between the digital and the physical worlds so that those working remotely don’t feel disconnected from those working in the office and vice versa.