Without a doubt, 2021 is set to be one of the most challenging years for businesses and the economy yet. We survived 2020 (barely), thinking that it was the most volatile year faced by businesses. And yet, here we are, staring down the barrel of 2021.

It's fair to say that 2021 is going to be rocky. However, much like our ability to withstand the challenges of the beginnings of a global pandemic and an economic crisis in 2020, we're confident we're going to be ok in 2021. There's just going to be some very, very unprecedented, and interesting trends that will shape the way that we conduct business and work...

5 Trends That Will Shape Work in 2021

• Working from home

If your company hasn't already had some sort of shift to working from home or remote work, you're in somewhat of a unique position. We've all had to face new working conditions as of late. This year, we predict that employers will have to shift even further to managing employees from home and remote working spaces. As we get more comfortable working from our dining room tables, there's no doubt that working from home is going to be a huge trend that shapes the way that we work in 2021.

• Safe Working Environments

If you're one of the lucky ones that can return to their place of work, a huge trend that's going to shape the way that the office runs are the introduction of safe working environments. Without a doubt, employers will be stocking up on hand sanitiser bulk packages to ensure their offices, commercial settings and corporate environments are well and truly stocked up for the coming months. Forget standing by the water cooler for your mid-morning chat; we'll all be lingering around the hand sanitiser dispensers this year.

• More Companies Will Voice their Political Stance

In 2021, employees are going to want to work for companies that have values aligned with their own. We have seen the power of voicing opinion in political and social debates, and it's become pretty evident that more workers are prioritising working with an organisation that they are proud to work for. The rise in call out culture means that employees now expect their employers to be actively involved in current political and social debates. To do so, companies will have to actively create a voice that resonates with their branding, employees, and company values. Use it wisely!

• Mental Health Support Will Continue to Increase

Over the last few years, employers have realised the benefits of encouraging safe and health workplaces. This includes ensuring the mental wellbeing and mental health of their employees, as well as their physical health. We all know that a healthy mind contributes to a happier, more productive, and positive employee in the workplace. Employees that feel supported, comfortable, and safe in their organisation are more likely to experience a more positive, collaborative, and happy time within their office or company.

In 2021, organisations are introducing wellness benefits, mental health support and are making a genuine effort to de-stigmatize mental health problems. We predict that this year, companies are only going to become more aware of mental health support and the benefits that come with taking care of your staff. If you haven't already, it's time to provide leading mental health support in your workplace.

• A New Outlook on Flexibility

Thought you were flexible? Think again. Forward thinking companies in 2021 are taking the flexibility of remote workers a step further and are allowing flexibility to shift from location to time. While working from home has been a huge step in the right direction in terms of breaking down the barriers of a structured workplace, we predict that the next big trend to transform the way businesses operate is allowing the employees to change when and the hours that they are online.

Companies that offer additional employees flexibility with when and how much they work, will see as much as 60% increase in their workplace's high performers. This year, we predict that this number is only expected to rise.

So, there you have it - 5 of the biggest trends that are set to transform the way that businesses operate and conduct business in 2021. While we're all getting into the rhythm of working after such a tumultuous year, we believe that 2020 has provided us with the right tools to continue learning, growing, and adapting to meet new demands.

The year we've just experienced has been unprecedented, there's no doubt about it. However, if these new trends are anything to go by, it's also going to be a fantastic year for both employees and employers - and we're all excited to see the transformation.