5 Business Trends to Watch Out for in 2021: Insights from Outlook Survey Questions
2021 has been a year of change, from the way we work to the way we live. The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped the global economy, and businesses are now facing a new set of challenges. To stay ahead of the curve, it’s essential to keep an eye on the latest business trends. In this article, we’ll take a look at five business trends that you should watch out for in 2021, insights from Outlook Survey Questions.
Trend #1: Remote Working is Here to Stay
The pandemic has caused a massive shift in the way we work. Remote working has become the new normal for many businesses, and it’s not going away anytime soon. According to a recent survey by Outlook, 84% of businesses reported that they plan to continue with remote working in some capacity after the pandemic. This trend has significant implications for businesses, including the need for new tools and processes to support remote collaboration and communication.
Trend #2: Digital Transformation is Accelerating
The pandemic has also accelerated the pace of digital transformation. Businesses are investing in new technologies to support remote working and online collaboration. The Outlook survey found that 62% of businesses are increasing their investment in digital transformation initiatives. This trend highlights the need for businesses to adapt to emerging technologies and stay relevant in a fast-changing digital landscape.
Trend #3: Increased Focus on Employee Well-being
The pandemic has highlighted the importance of employee well-being. Businesses are recognizing that happy, healthy employees are more productive and engaged. The Outlook survey found that 75% of businesses have implemented new programs or policies to support employee well-being. This trend is likely to continue in 2021, with businesses placing a greater emphasis on employee mental health and work-life balance.
Trend #4: Increased Investment in Cybersecurity
As businesses shift to digital platforms, cybersecurity becomes more critical than ever. Cyberattacks are increasing in frequency and sophistication, and businesses need to protect themselves from these threats. The Outlook survey found that 58% of businesses are increasing their investment in cybersecurity. This trend highlights the need for businesses to take cybersecurity seriously and invest in robust security measures to protect their data and systems.
Trend #5: Greater Emphasis on Sustainability
Sustainability has been a buzzword in business for some time, but it’s now becoming an essential consideration for businesses of all sizes. The Outlook survey found that 70% of businesses are increasing their focus on sustainability in 2021. This trend highlights the need for businesses to adopt sustainable practices and reduce their environmental impact.
Conclusion
2021 is an exciting but challenging year for businesses. Remote working, digital transformation, employee well-being, cybersecurity, and sustainability are just a few of the business trends to watch out for this year. By staying informed and adapting to these trends, businesses can stay ahead of the curve and thrive in a post-pandemic world.
