In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the call to “rehumanise” the workplace has gained significant traction across industries. This movement champions empathy, flexibility, and a renewed focus on employee well-being—values that have become increasingly vital as organisations navigate the complexities of remote and hybrid work environments. However, while rehumanising the workplace is crucial for fostering long-term success, it is essential to understand that this shift does not equate to a lowering of professional standards. In fact, maintaining professionalism is more important than ever, especially in client-facing roles where brand image and trust are at stake.
The Need for Rehumanising Workplaces
The pandemic fundamentally changed how we work, bringing the importance of work-life balance, mental health, and the human aspects of our professional lives to the forefront. Companies have made significant strides in embracing more flexible work policies, promoting well-being initiatives, and recognising the diverse needs of their employees. According to KPMG’s 2024 report, employees increasingly expect support for their work-life balance and mental health as a standard, rather than a benefit (Accounting Today) (Engage for Success). This shift towards a more empathetic workplace is a positive development that aligns with broader societal changes.
However, as we embrace these changes, there is a risk of conflating empathy and flexibility with a decline in professionalism. This is where organisations need to be vigilant. Rehumanising the workplace should enhance, not diminish, the professional standards that are vital to business success.
The Role of Professionalism in the Rehumanised Workplace
Professionalism remains the cornerstone of successful business operations, particularly in client-facing industries where maintaining trust and consistency is paramount. Recent insights from KPMG underscore the importance of sustaining professional behaviour, even as companies adopt more relaxed and flexible work environments. The informal nature of remote work, combined with relaxed dress codes, can sometimes blur the lines of professionalism, potentially impacting how clients perceive the company (Accounting Today).
This does not mean reverting to rigid, pre-pandemic norms, but rather finding a balance where empathy and professionalism coexist. For instance, while it is important to support employees’ needs through flexible work arrangements, companies should also establish clear guidelines that uphold professional standards during virtual meetings and client interactions. This approach ensures that the brand’s integrity and client trust are maintained while also meeting the evolving needs of the workforce.
Maintaining Professionalism in a Flexible Work Environment
KPMG’s 2024 workforce trends highlight several strategies for balancing flexibility with professionalism. These include implementing policies that encourage consistent professional behaviour, such as designated “camera-on” days for client meetings or guidelines for virtual communication that reflect the company’s brand values (Accounting Today). These small but significant practices help reinforce the importance of professionalism in a rehumanised work environment.
Furthermore, leadership plays a crucial role in modelling this balance. Leaders should demonstrate that it is possible to be empathetic and flexible while still upholding the high standards of professionalism expected in their industry. By setting the tone from the top, organisations can ensure that rehumanising the workplace enhances rather than detracts from their professional image.
The Impact on Company Performance and Market Perception
Failing to strike this balance can have serious implications for company performance and market perception. Clients and stakeholders expect a certain level of professionalism, and any deviation from this can erode trust and harm the company’s reputation. As highlighted in recent studies, maintaining a consistent and professional client experience is critical to sustaining business relationships and achieving long-term success (KPMG)(CultureMonkey).
Ultimately, the goal is to create a work environment where employees feel valued and supported, but where professionalism is never compromised. By integrating empathy into the professional framework, companies can foster a workplace culture that not only rehumanises the workspace but also strengthens their position in the market.
Conclusion
Rehumanising the workplace is not just a trend; it is a necessary evolution in how we think about work. However, this evolution must be carefully managed to ensure that professionalism remains a core component of business operations. By striking the right balance between empathy and professional standards, companies can create a work environment that supports both employee well-being and sustained business success.
As we move forward, let us embrace the human aspects of work without losing sight of the professional standards that have always driven excellence. After all, a truly rehumanised workplace is one where employees can thrive both as individuals and as professionals.
