The programming committee for the 79th Annual SAM International Business Conference is pleased to announce the acceptance of the presentation, Employee Adaptation In The Return To Office Era Within Financial Institutions by Polina Magliozzi.
We’re excited to announce that a groundbreaking study addressing the post-Return to Office (RTO) challenges within the Internal Audit Division of a leading Fortune 500 investment bank will be presented at the upcoming SAM International Business Conference. This research is particularly timely and significant, as it delves into the evolving landscape of workplace dynamics, heavily influenced by the pandemic’s lasting impact and the integration of Generation Z into the workforce. The study’s findings shed light on the critical hurdles facing organizations today, especially concerning employee retention and satisfaction.
The core of the study revolves around the widespread dissatisfaction among employees triggered by mandatory RTO policies. This transition back to the office has not been smooth, with many employees expressing concerns over the disruption of work-life balance and a noticeable decline in productivity. The backdrop of this research is set in the bustling heart of New York City, where the bank’s Internal Audit (IA) Division employs approximately 1,200 individuals globally. A notable aspect of this division is its significant Gen Z demographic, accounting for 50-70% of its workforce. These individuals, many of whom commenced their roles during the pandemic, have shown a strong preference for maintaining a degree of the remote or hybrid work model, valuing the flexibility it offers.
Adopting a meticulous Systematic Review Methodology, the research embarked on a comprehensive journey through seven stages, from question development and protocol creation to evidence search, quality assessment, data extraction, and the synthesis of findings. This thorough approach unveiled three pivotal areas of concern: the need for increased flexibility and improved work-life balance, the desire for continuous learning and growth opportunities, and the imperative for fostering equity and inclusion within the workplace.
The implications of these findings are profound for management and organizational leaders. To enhance employee retention and foster a more engaging and supportive work environment, the study advocates for the implementation of more flexible work policies. It highlights the importance of creating a culture that values continuous learning and addresses the gaps in equity and inclusion that exist within the division.
As this paper is presented at the SAM International Business Conference, it promises to spark important conversations and inspire actionable strategies among business leaders and HR professionals. The insights offered by this study are not only relevant for those within the financial services sector but also for organizations across industries facing similar post-pandemic workplace challenges. The adaptation to the changing expectations of the workforce, particularly with the rise of Generation Z, will be crucial for companies aiming to thrive in this new era of work.
Join us online or in person at SAMIBC 2024 and see this great presentation and many more March 19 – March 23, 2024. For registration information visit www.samnational.org/conference.