7 Key Leadership Trends for 2022

Temporary remote working has given way to long-term hybrid working arrangements. Building an inclusive culture that gives the same consideration and weight to off-site workers as to in-office ones is vital. To retain a robust culture of engagement, focus on keeping communication channels open and remote workers actively involved.   

The past two years have carried a huge emotional weight for staff at all levels, and team members have expectations around an organization’s responsibilities regarding their wellbeing. Investing in organizational wellness through increased benefits, flexibility around leave and work hours, and health-forward programs will improve organizational outcomes – and reduce burnout and attrition.  

Increases in automation and career precarity have created fear around the future of work. Allay team members’ concerns by investing in development initiatives including upskilling, job rotations, expanded responsibilities, coaching, and mentoring. These will not only increase organizational capacity, but will foster team buy-in and engagement. 

Actionable, outcome-based Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives are critical in today’s workplace. Work to ensure that responsibilities are equally shared, that growth is present, and that traditionally underrepresented groups are given opportunities to speak up and take the floor – and are supported at all levels of their career. 

Burnout is one of the biggest challenges currently facing organizations. The erosion of work-life boundaries in a remote or hybrid environment coupled with staffing changes and the demands of caregiving have placed extra demands on team members. Embracing flexible work hours and working arrangements, including fully remote or hybrid options, will help reduce burnout and foster an improved working environment.

The ability to acknowledge and adjust to change is more vital than ever. Leaders will need to quickly react to market shifts, rapidly synthesize data and course correct accordingly. This requires keeping communication channels open and soliciting input and feedback from a variety of sources – as well as being bold when it comes to decision-making.

While having an agile mindset is vital for navigating the inevitable changes the coming year will bring, so too is being able to maintain organizational consistency. Too much change can create friction and instability, so finding ways to sit tight and keep moving forward will be critical in 2022.