It is undeniable that 2020 has been tough. Businesses were forced to pivot their operations and explore innovative ways to survive despite the pandemic that rocked the world. This article talks about some of the most important leadership trends that will help businesses confront the new normal.
- Taking Executive Education Online
While online executive education has been already popular for years, it is expected to be bigger this 2021. It trains business leaders anytime and anywhere, making it the perfect alternative to on-campus education. By taking a short course online, business leaders can improve their credentials and take their organizations to greater heights.
- Priority on Cybersecurity
According to Cybersecurity Ventures, cybercrime will cost businesses as much as $6 trillion by 2021. This is putting increasing pressure on business leaders to build a safer system to minimize vulnerabilities. From using authentication services to providing more stringent cybersecurity training, leaders should be more proactive in eliminating cyber threats.
- Promote Remote Work
Because of the business disruptions caused by COVID-19, leaders realized the benefits of remote work. This year, it is expected that there will be a more flexible work environment, providing employees with the option to work remotely as they please.
- Highlight Diversity and Inclusion
This year, it is anticipated that business leaders will put more emphasis on social issues. This will result in creating a more diverse and inclusive environment. We expect that there will be a stronger representation of minority groups. It is not just a pursuit of their social responsibility, but this is also important in building a better reputation and maximizing profitability.
- Moving to a Flatter Structure
Organizational hierarchy is starting to become an obsolete concept. Today, businesses are moving to flatter structures. Instead of having leaders who micromanage, there is a greater emphasis on collaboration. By having flatter organizations, there can be increased morale, improved communication, and more democracy, among other things.
- Embrace Artificial Intelligence
It may seem that artificial intelligence is overused when discussing business trends, but this is one of the most significant factors that will impact leadership this 2021. This technology will improve decision-making in organizations, making it easy for leaders to take advantage of massive data. Artificial intelligence will augment and improve the knowledge and skills of today’s leaders.
- Increase Adaptivity
Leaders are expected to be more adaptive this 2021. This is important to thrive in a rapidly changing business world. The failure to adapt could mean being left behind. Today’s leaders must be agile enough to change when necessary. We are living in a world where only the fittest survives, so business leaders must adjust to fit in and continue to exist.
From online executive education to adaptivity, this article talked about some of the most important 2021 leadership trends. These changes are important to become a more competent leader and fuel the success of your organization.