Workplace culture has changed – the increasing demand for the digital shifted the way companies see their workforce. Because of this evolution, businesses have re-tooled their operations with new work models and technology.

But studies reveal that the workplace will continue to change in the next ten years. Organisations may have to prepare themselves for the new normal, as workers make the return to the office.

Business leaders from different countries were surveyed by Gartner this year – the analysis showed the majority (95%) of business leaders expect their employees to continue working at home.

However, to keep up with the emerging working patterns and trends, company leaders will have to innovate their workforce. Hiring managers will continue to retool their workforce and upskill their employees.

Since companies are adopting hybrid working routines, leaders can drive new critical skills in the workplace to boost work performance. These are all signs that we are headed towards the future of work.

Read more: New work arrangements: Will we see a shift from ‘Days Off’ to ‘Days On?

1. More upskilling for employees

Learning new skills has become crucial in the workforce. Since the digital economy requires new ideas, upskilling will be an integral part of the workplace in the future. Employees may need to get more creative, critical and may have to learn more digital skills in order to manage complex problems.

2. Robots will be our co-workers

Companies will start to employ smart machines, software and avatars to assist employees. Workers can be trained to handle virtual helpers like artificial intelligence apps and devices. Companies can also provide workers their own personal workspaces like cloud communities and personal virtual assistants.

3. Working days will shorten

Since the world of work has transitioned into an employee-oriented workforce, we may see the typical 40-hour, five-day week get shortened in the future. Studies have found that 2 in 3 businesses have found it easier to retain workers in four-day week working schedules. Since companies are now willing to compromise, we may see more changes in the future.

Read more: What's Next?: Why leaders need to be chief anticipation officers for future disruption

4. Hybrid working will be the norm

One thing the pandemic has taught us is that remote working setups benefit employees. Studies show that as work transitions into the new normal, employees will continue working remotely. Businesses will embrace the hybrid work model, and will incorporate both remote and in-person workers to create a better work routine for every employee. Since many employees will stay working remotely, it may be best for companies to combine the pros and cons of the new normal.

5. Office spaces will be reimagined

Since we are shifting to hybrid work, the use of physical working spaces may be reimagined. Some companies want to redesign their office spaces to be at the centre of social interaction in the workforce, while some think it’s best to use it to leverage their business. One thing’s clear, office spaces will never be used the same again.