Introducing \the Vanguards

^{INTRODUCTION | KEY FINDINGS | VANGUARDS | PART ONE | PART TWO | SOLUTIONS}

Introducing the Vanguards

In our 2021 report, we uncovered a group of leading companies we called the Vanguards. These firms said that employee wellbeing and productivity had increased during the pandemic, and they reported higher revenue growth - an indication their approach was giving them a competitive edge.

In the 2022 research, we have recreated the Vanguard group, using the same criteria, and it makes up 15% of the total sample (vs 11% of the total sample in 2021).

Throughout this report, we examine what these firms are getting right and what others can learn from their approach. Once again, the data reinforces the link between Vanguard status and better business performance: this group is far more likely to report increases in revenue, profitability and customer satisfaction over the past 12 months. These firms are also far more likely to say that their ability to recruit talent has increased. This is partly because they're able to attract and retain growth-ready flexible talent, as well as create environments that meet the needs of both permanent and contingent workers.

^{INTRODUCTION | KEY FINDINGS | VANGUARDS | PART ONE | PART TWO | SOLUTIONS}

Four dynamics for developing the future workforce

The Vanguards we identified are leading the market across four dynamics that will shape the future workforce. In this report, we will explore each of the dynamics in detail and provide clear recommendations for how business leaders can strengthen their performance across these critical areas.

DYNAMIC #1

STRENGTHENING WORKFORCE AGILITY

Do organisations have a comprehensive strategy for bridging skills gaps, from hiring new talent to bringing in contingent labour? Do they have the capabilities for rapidly meeting the business’s people requirements?

DYNAMIC #2

REINVENTING THE EMPLOYEE EXPERIENCE

Do businesses make it a priority to improve the employee experience? Do they benchmark their employee value proposition against their competitors? Do they engage employees in reinventing work?

DYNAMIC #3

TAKING CONCRETE ACTION ON DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION (DEI)

Are company-wide DEI strategies in place to attract talent from underserved communities? Are these employees supported and offered training opportunities throughout their careers?

DYNAMIC #4

ADOPTING THE RIGHT TECHNOLOGIES TO EMPOWER TODAY’S WORKFORCE

Does the organisation make use of best-in-class tools for managing talent, boosting collaboration and enhancing employee experience?