In today’s rapidly changing work environment, the integration of automation and remote work continues to spark debate. Workato®, a leading enterprise orchestration platform, recently published the report Automate to Elevate, commissioned by Sago. This report reveals the latest attitudes of UK workers toward remote work, technology, and the impact of automation on their professional lives.
As the ‘return to office’ movement gains momentum, concerns arise about remote and hybrid work’s effects on collaboration and connection. However, the Automate to Elevate report provides a different perspective. It shows that only 26% of UK respondents struggle to connect with colleagues virtually. Less than a quarter (23%) believe that not being in the office simultaneously affects their ability to collaborate. This suggests that location is not the primary barrier to workplace relationships.
Understanding the Real Challenges
The report highlights that the key issue facing UK workers is the sheer volume of work and a lack of time. Almost half (48%) of respondents indicated they would need an extra 30-60 minutes each day to focus on building relationships with colleagues. This insight shifts the focus from where employees work to how they manage their time.
Additionally, 74% of respondents believe that automation tools can significantly enhance employee connections at work. This sentiment underscores the need for organisations to rethink their approach to employee engagement. Automation can alleviate mundane tasks, allowing teams to focus on meaningful interactions and collaboration.
Key Insights from the Report
The Automate to Elevate report offers several valuable insights into the current state of work in the UK:
Disconnection Not Rooted in Location: While many UK workers feel disconnected, the primary cause is not remote work. Instead, it is the overwhelming volume of tasks they face.
Time for Meaningful Work: Nearly 90% of respondents (87%) believe automation saves them time, enabling them to engage in deep, meaningful work and collaboration.
Prioritising Relationships: If given an additional hour in their day, almost half (46%) of respondents would spend it building relationships with colleagues.
Enhanced Productivity and Quality: A significant majority (86%) of workers see automation tools as a solution for improving productivity. Likewise, 85% believe automation enhances the quality of their work.
Bringing Teams Together: A noteworthy 74% of UK respondents indicate that automation tools contribute to improved employee connections, collaboration, and innovation.
What Leaders Can Implement
To foster a productive and connected work environment, leaders must take proactive steps. Here are several strategies they can implement based on the report’s findings:
- Invest in Automation Tools
Leaders should prioritise the adoption of automation tools that streamline processes and reduce manual burdens. This investment can save employees time and enhance productivity. Organisations that integrate automation into their workflows are better positioned to support collaboration and innovation.
- Foster a Culture of Collaboration
Encouraging a collaborative culture is essential. Leaders should create opportunities for teams to engage in meaningful interactions. This can include team-building activities, brainstorming sessions, and regular check-ins. By fostering collaboration, leaders can help employees strengthen their connections.
- Provide Flexible Work Options
Offering flexible work arrangements can cater to employees’ diverse needs. This flexibility allows workers to manage their time more effectively, reducing stress and promoting a healthier work-life balance. A hybrid approach can facilitate collaboration while accommodating individual preferences.
- Focus on Employee Wellbeing
Leaders should prioritise employee well-being by recognising the importance of relationship-building. Providing additional time for employees to connect can lead to increased job satisfaction and engagement. Encourage breaks and informal interactions to promote a sense of belonging.
- Regular Feedback and Support
Establishing regular feedback mechanisms is crucial. Leaders should actively seek input from employees regarding their experiences with automation and collaboration. This feedback can help organisations refine their approaches and better support their workforce.
What Employees Can Do to Support Themselves
While leaders play a vital role in creating a supportive environment, employees also have a part to play in their professional well-being. Here are some strategies they can implement:
Embrace Automation
Employees should leverage automation tools available to them. By familiarising themselves with these technologies, they can streamline their tasks, reduce manual work, and create more time for meaningful activities.
Prioritise Relationship Building
Workers should proactively prioritize building relationships with colleagues. Setting aside time for informal conversations or virtual coffee breaks can strengthen connections and foster collaboration.
Manage Time Effectively
Effective time management is crucial in today’s busy work environment. Employees can create schedules that allocate time for both essential tasks and relationship-building activities. This approach ensures they can balance their workload with the need for connection.
Communicate Openly
Open communication is vital for effective collaboration. Employees should feel empowered to express their needs and concerns. This openness fosters a supportive environment where colleagues can work together more effectively.
Seek Support and Resources
Employees should actively seek support and resources available within their organisations. This can include training programs focused on automation, collaboration, and team-building. By taking advantage of these resources, they can enhance their skills and improve their work experience.
The Impact of Automation
The findings from the Automate to Elevate report underscore the significant impact of automation on the workforce. The following statistics highlight the crucial role of automation in enhancing employee connections and productivity:
Time Savings: 87% of respondents stated that automation saves them time, allowing them to engage in meaningful work.
Productivity Improvement: 86% believe automation is part of the solution for enhancing productivity.
Relationship Building: 74% of UK workers see automation tools as a key factor in improving employee connections.
Quality of Work: 85% of respondents agree that automation enhances the quality of their work.
These statistics emphasise the importance of integrating automation into the workplace. By doing so, organisations can enhance employee satisfaction and engagement. As the workplace continues to evolve, organizations must adapt to meet the needs of their employees. The Automate to Elevate report provides valuable insights into the current attitudes of UK workers toward remote work, technology, and automation.
Wellity Training Support
Building Connections: Uniting Teams in a Hybrid World
This training addresses the unique challenges and opportunities presented by hybrid work environments. Participants will explore strategies to build strong connections, foster effective collaboration, and create a cohesive team culture that transcends physical boundaries.
Objectives:
- Understand the dynamics and challenges of working in a hybrid work environment.
- Develop communication strategies and virtual collaboration techniques to bridge the gab between remote and in-person team members.
- Foster a sense of unity and belonging among team members through virtual team-building activities and initiatives.
- Implement best practices for effective remote collaboration, including utilising digital tools and fostering inclusive communication.
For further information on this session, contact our team.
