Explore 18 key words and definitions that characterise the modern world of work. From agility to remote work – understand the key concepts for your professional success. In our ever-changing world of work, new terms and concepts are everywhere.
From agile to the intricacies of remote working, embark on a transformative exploration of 18 key concepts that are shaping today’s working landscape. In an ever-evolving work environment where terms like coworking spaces and workation are redefining traditional norms, this insightful article reveals the key definitions that are critical to skilfully navigating the modern workplace. Delve into the nuances of concepts like “work-life blending” and “co-living” and gain a precise understanding of their implications. Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of New Work, discover the essence of being a digital nomad and understand how concepts such as Work Life Balance and Community contribute positively to work and life. These 18 concepts serve as a roadmap to empower companies to create a thriving, adaptable and sustainable future of work.
New work
New Work is a holistic concept that emphasises modern working models and company structures. It focuses on self-determination, flexibility, collaboration, agility and individual empowerment in order to meet the changing requirements of new work environments. New Work supports the use of technology, sustainable leadership and the creation of meaningful working environments.
Remote work
Remote working models allow employees to complete their tasks from a location of their choice, often beyond the traditional office. These models optimise flexibility and autonomy, with technology supporting collaboration and communication. Remote work can be full-time or part-time and is a key element of New Work as it enables employees to achieve a better work-life balance, increase work efficiency and expand the pool of talent.
Remote companies
Remote companies are businesses that do not have physical offices or where the majority of employees work in remote locations. They use technology to simplify communication and collaboration. These companies are often agile, flexible and adapt quickly to change. Remote companies are an example of new working models made possible by New Work and show how modern technology is transforming workplaces.
Hybrid work
Hybrid working models combine remote and office work. Employees have the flexibility to choose their workplaces as needed. This makes it possible to streamline collaboration and meet individual needs. Hybrid working models are an important response to the requirements of New Work, as they combine the advantages of remote working and face-to-face collaboration.
Coworking spaces
Coworking spaces are shared workplaces where people from different companies and industries can work together. These places promote collaboration, knowledge sharing and networking. Coworking spaces are an important element of the New Work movement as they offer flexible workplaces on demand. These can be rented by companies on a flexible and temporary basis. Coworking spaces also offer different concepts, designs and atmospheres – just the way companies want them.
Flexible & temporary workplaces
Flexible and temporary workplaces offer the option of renting office space and other spaces, like meetings rooms, company retreats and other spaces on demand. This enables companies and employees to adapt their working environment to changing requirements. In the context of New Work, flexible and temporary workplaces help to optimise costs and increase the flexibility.
Third workplaces
In Germany in particular, people often talk about “third workplaces”. Third workplaces are places that are neither the traditional office or home where people can work. They include coworking spaces, libraries, bars, cafés, parks and other places where people can work. New Work encourages employees, teams and companies to choose their workplace according to their tasks, needs and mood. Third-party workplaces offer a wide range of options for this.
Co-living
Co-living is a temporary or permanent way of living together where people live in shared accommodation, often closely linked to work and lifestyles. There are very different types of co-living spaces, such as residential buildings with additional workplaces, but also accommodation such as hotels or hostels where companies, teams or freelancers can temporarily stay for a period of time. In the context of New Work, co-living facilities can facilitate the integration of work and life, and work can also be relocated to other places temporarily and easily for team building or project work.
Workation
A workation combines work and vacation by allowing employees to work in an attractive location while also having the opportunity to explore the surroundings. This approach promotes inspiration and relaxation, contributing to the implementation of the New Work principles of Work-Life Blending.
Digital nomads
Digital nomads are individuals who primarily earn their livelihood online, granting them the freedom to work from virtually any location in the world. They leverage modern technologies such as laptops and the internet to perform their professional tasks without being tied to a fixed workspace. This flexible lifestyle allows digital nomads to combine work and travel, explore different places, and pursue personal interests while continuing to work online. This group embodies the evolving nature of the work world, emphasizing independence and mobility.
Home office
Home office refers to working from home. Employees set up a workspace in their own living environment and can perform tasks from there. This supports flexibility and work-life balance but can also bring about social isolation and distractions. In the context of New Work, home offices are an example of the individual design of the workplace.
Work-life balance
Work life balance refers to the balance between professional and personal commitments. New Work aims to improve this balance through flexible working arrangements and the promotion of self-responsibility. It encourages finding time for family, leisure, and personal interests.
Work life blending
Work life blending is a concept that abolishes the separation of work and life in favor of an integrated lifestyle. Within the framework of New Work, work and leisure merge, giving employees more control over their daily lives and allowing them to better harmonize their professional and personal goals.
Community
Community refers to the social relationships and networks of people in the workplace. New Work emphasizes the creation of communities, whether in coworking spaces, remote companies, or hybrid work models. These communities promote knowledge exchange, collaboration, and the well-being of employees, contributing to the implementation of the principles of New Work.
Agile work
Agile working is a flexible approach to task execution that focuses on continuous improvement and adaptation. It emphasizes the self-organization of teams and the ability to quickly respond to changing requirements. In agile work environments, work processes are divided into short iterations, promoting transparency, collaboration, and fast feedback. This enables efficient project implementation and adaptation to new developments. Agile methods such as Scrum and Kanban are commonly applied to optimize workflow and enhance employee flexibility.
Collaboration
Collaborative working refers to the joint cooperation of employees, teams, and departments to achieve common goals. It emphasizes the integration of knowledge and ideas to develop innovative solutions and leverage synergies. This approach promotes open communication, the exchange of skills, and the creation of an inclusive work culture. Collaborative working can encompass physical or virtual work environments that facilitate collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Teambuilding
Teambuilding takes on a dynamic and collaborative approach, emphasizing flexibility, communication, and shared goals. Traditional team structures are evolving into interconnected networks that foster open communication and cooperation. Teambuilding activities incorporate agility and adaptability, aligning with the principles of New Work, where individuals contribute diverse skills, and collective intelligence is valued. Remote collaboration tools enable seamless communication, breaking down physical barriers. Emphasis is placed on creating a supportive work community, whether in traditional offices, virtual spaces, or hybrid models, enhancing team cohesion, creativity, and adaptability to meet the evolving demands of the modern work landscape.
Sustainable leadership
Sustainable leadership refers to the direction and management of companies, taking into account social, ecological, and economic aspects. It focuses on long-term sustainability, ethical conduct, and social responsibility. Sustainable leaders pursue strategies that reduce the environmental impact of the company, promote social justice, and ensure long-term economic success. These leaders align with a long-term vision and consider the impact of their decisions on society and the environment.