Global audio and video brand EPOS partnered with Foresight Factory to release a report called "The Workplace of the Future." This report looks at the current and future trends that are shaping the way we work, as well as the technology solutions that can help businesses navigate a long-term hybrid strategy for a successful workforce.

Some key findings from the report include:

• Employees are putting their well-being first: Workers all over the world are taking control of their physical and mental health, and over half of workers (53%) say they are more likely to prioritise their well-being compared to before the pandemic. As a result, employees are expecting their employers to support them in their health and well-being, with 38% calling for time off for mental health needs and 30% wanting businesses to dedicate time for physical and mental well-being pursuits.

• Avoiding burnout and striving for happiness is important: Burnout is still a major issue and 36% of global workers say they have experienced burnout in the last 12 months from working too hard. This is particularly true for younger workers, with 40% of Gen Z and 42% of Millennials reporting burnout. With the disconnect between remote working and employers still present, less than half of workers (43%) are happy with their work-life balance and almost a third (30%) say they plan to change careers to improve their overall happiness.

• Physical office space is crucial: Employees don't want to feel isolated and are looking for businesses to provide both virtual and physical opportunities for connection and collaboration. Half of employees say they miss spending time with colleagues in person now that they can work remotely. This is especially true for younger workers (80% of Gen Z and Millennials) who want to use physical office spaces to learn, grow and be a part of their workplace community.

• Learning and development are key: The working world is becoming increasingly demanding and employees are expected to quickly learn new skills or improve existing ones. Over the past few years, workers have embraced new learning opportunities and now 60% of employees want to continue learning and 44% want to progress and develop within their current job. If they can't do this, they will leave to find opportunities elsewhere.

• Poor technology can lead to cognitive overload: Employers need to be mindful of the technology solutions they provide to employees, as using sub-par solutions can lead to cognitive fatigue. EPOS research has shown that in noisy environments, the brain has to work harder to focus on important sounds, taking 35% more cognitive effort to listen. Over time, this can lead to cognitive overload and fatigue, impacting employee stress levels, information retention and performance.

EPOS president Jeppe Dalberg-Larsen says that the world of work is more complicated than ever before and employers who are invested in the future of their company and their employees need to think carefully about their hybrid strategies. There is no one-size-fits-all approach and technology alone is not enough. Employers need to put their people at the heart of creating a workplace community that keeps employees engaged in the long term.

Foresight Factory client partner Marta Vilella adds that every business needs a unique and tailored plan that takes into account all aspects of the business, including people and culture. Employers need to listen to the concerns, challenges and interests of their employees and make changes to create a successful team.