2012, the year of glee and gloom, is over and the 2013 frenzy has already begun. New trends and mantras are going to spring up in the corporate world, forming the basis of the new driving force of 2013.
But before I begin my business leadership forecast and try to prognosticate the future, let us not forget what 2012 has bestowed on us.
Right from the death of PCs to tablets, to 2012 witnessing the tremendous growth in HR management, social media marketing and management’s modus operandi, innovation adorned the boulevard of 2012! It is time to see if the year ahead can take it to the next level.
It has been wisely said that change is the only constant and let us hope 2013 sings a similar song. It is time we explore the most anticipated leadership trends to flourish in the times to come.
Generation X meets Y: Dogma in Disguise
It is of utmost importance to address the eccentricity arising out of the young and old generations being exactly opposite in their styles of working. Where Generation X forms a closed-minded group, hardworking yet hindering innovation and communication, Generation Y is all eyes and ears for new techniques and distinctive opportunities. 2013 will witness the gap being narrowed.
Going Social: The Hands-on Networking Age
The social media marketing techniques are very much in vogue. But the challenge remains the same – will the leader be able to engage more and more people on the go. In a world where technology is at the zenith, you could watch 2013 on digital platforms like Skype, Facebook and YouTube. So, corrective policies and optimum utilisation of the same can prove extremely fruitful.
The Workplace Carol: A Balance of Work and Life
It is no rocket science when I stress on the fact how cash-based incentives have motivated the employees since times immemorial. But in our modern workplace set-up, more focus must be zoomed on the work-life balance incentives. Innovative incentive schemes, such as increased vacation time may encourage employees in a prolific and productive manner. Apart from this, letting an employee pursue personal interests in office, such as continued education or gym memberships will become more prevalent in 2013.
Jack of All Trades: The Corporate Heroes of 2013
After years and years of elevating the idea of case-specific job specialisation within the organisation, in my opinion, business in 2013 will reward the aptitude of ‘wearing multiple hats’. Corporate leaders are becoming aware of the idea that in a downsized business environment, an employee should be able to handle multiple tasks.
Corporate Businesses Makeover: Profit to Purpose
No business can survive without profits. But, along with profits the 2013 corporate leadership will witness a new role of business tycoons, i.e. handling social challenges along with economic challenges. This will help in building legitimacy in the eyes of the demanding consumer of today. Also, this will act as a strategic tool for companies to realise their mutual benefits within the society of 2013.
Value Redefined: The Evolved Consumer!
The consumer space is growing at a sturdy pace. Gone are the days when information was confined to highly rich people or people who came with a deep-rooted legacy. Looking through the lens of an evolved 2012, in 2013 an informed consumer’s choice will touch the lives of another consumer.
As the ownerless economy expands, the informative consumer is distancing itself from skepticism when it comes to buying products; they would want values and benefits and not the possession of products.
