It is easy to feel overworked in a society that focuses on productivity, but you can stay productive and enjoy a healthier work-life balance when you stay on top of innovations and patterns. Whether you save your business money by switching to an internet-based phone service like Ooma cloud or save yourself time by taking advantage of task-management software, being ahead of the curve can pay off big time. Here are five more business trends you should pay attention to right now.
1. Working Remotely
Whether you love it or hate it, remote work is likely here to stay. In a recent survey, over half of small and medium-sized business owners said they would continue offering their employees remote work options in the future. This will mean more software companies and services will need to tailor their offerings to match the new workforce. The mobility and freedom that remote work offers will likely continue to change the way people work and where they work.
2. Selling Online
E-commerce has been a significant business trend since the internet began to be widely used. Recently, it has grown even more quickly, increasing the need for businesses that have not yet adapted to the trend to do so. Specifically, more and more people are purchasing from their smartphones and using smart assistants for their shopping. Focusing on mobile sales is likely a smart move.
3. Collecting Data
Data is becoming one of the most lucrative assets you can possess, which is why major companies like Google are focusing on it. High-quality information is crucial to growing your business, and learning how to filter out the noise is of the utmost importance. Data literacy is a critical skill to learn in contemporary business.
4. Going Local
In a world of increasing globalization, focusing on local manufacturing may not seem like it should be your first priority. Globalization is not likely to go away, but after issues with supply chain interruptions and significant loss of business as a result, many businesses are looking to bring manufacturing closer to home. The rise in environmental awareness is another reason merchants are changing their production. Centering on local efforts early could differentiate your company from competitors.
Paying attention to the way business is evolving can help you stay ahead of the curve. These are just a few patterns at which you might want to take a second look.