“Many individuals, especially in the
technology field, will not change jobs if they are required to be on-site. This mindset, created as a result of the pandemic, is one of the biggest challenges facing HR.”
“Organizations and institutions that prioritize the associate experience, including listening and engagement — largely falling within HR teams — will ultimately become better positioned to attract and retain talent,” said Harbert MBA grad Glenn Scott, a former vice president of human resources at the food company Rich’s. Clear communication becomes particu- larly important. “We are so new in this type of calculation that it’s hard to draw trends yet,” said Scott, who recently became vice president of direct store delivery in the company’s in-store bakery and deli direct chains division. “I think the best way to approach it is complete transparency to employees in how their pay and benefits are structured and how that might change with a difference in location.” “Wages have certainly jumped,” Self said, “but I wonder whether some workers will choose lower compensation for great flexi- bility in the future, especially those who have come to love working remotely, but are being asked to return to the office.” Some no doubt will. Others just as certainly will not. Striking that balance is one more challenge for HR professionals in the workplace of 2022 and beyond. —Jim Earnhardt
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