Ep. 159: Rishad Tobaccowala, Founder of The Rethinking Work Platform and Senior Advisor at Publicis Groupe, Five Forces Transforming the Future of Work

Leaders,

In this episode, Rishad explores the evolving dynamics of work and organizations, offering thoughtful insights on what success and joy in work truly mean. He shares his perspective on the rise of Asia—particularly China, India, and Southeast Asia—as key players shaping the future of technology and innovation.

Rishad highlights five transformative forces reshaping companies: generational shifts, technological advancements, the rise of gig work and marketplaces, and the lasting effects of COVID-19. He predicts a move toward fractionalized workforce models and emphasizes the need for leaders to adapt to this new reality.

The discussion examines the reinvention of the office, the emergence of new leadership styles, and the integration of humans and AI in the workplace. Rishad also explores the balance between large and small companies, the critical role of continuous learning, and why businesses should embrace a "company of one" mindset.

The episode wraps up with practical advice for executives on thriving in this rapidly changing world of work.

Key takeaways:

• Success is defined by the freedom to spend time in ways that bring joy.

• Asia, particularly China, India, and Southeast Asia, are at the forefront of technological growth and innovation.

• The five forces that will transform companies are generational shifts, technology, gig work, marketplaces, and the long-term impact of COVID-19.

• Companies will adopt a fractionalized workforce model, where employees work part-time and have flexibility in their schedules.

• Leaders will need to adapt to the changing dynamics of work and embrace new ways of managing and leading teams. The office will be completely reimagined, with a focus on in-person interaction rather than physical presence.

• New types of leaders will emerge to navigate the changing landscape of work.

• Humans and AI will work together in a coexistent manner, with AI augmenting human capabilities.

• The future of work will be characterized by the existence of large companies and small companies, with little in between.

• Learning, curiosity, creativity, collaboration, convincing, and communication skills will be crucial for success in the future of work.

• Executives should allocate time for learning, reimagine their companies, focus on creating and guiding rather than monitoring and measuring, think like a company of one, and embrace the opportunities of the future of work.