Understanding And Managing The Mobile Workforce

Is mobile working the way we will all work in the future? Is it transforming the business world, driving innovation and creating opportunities – or confusing managers, draining organisational resources and wrecking family life?

This report examines the challenges faced by mobile workers and the organisations that employ them. It draws on a wide range of sources, including a specially commissioned series of in-depth interviews with mobile workers and their managers from organisations around the world. It reveals several surprising facts about what it takes to be a mobile worker – and how organisations can maximise the value they get from the people they empower with mobility.

Today's typical mobile worker is a full-time, male manager. But within two years, one quarter of the world's working population will be mobile workers. This means that organisations will have to manage a rapid transition to a style of working that supports people of all kinds, makes the best of their talents and maintains their identification with the organisation and its goals.

Successful mobile workers tend to be resilient extroverts. They are open to new experiences and highly adaptable. And, contrary to the stereotype of the harassed and disoriented road warrior, they are supremely organised and independent-minded. With the right kind of tailored support, their productivity and adaptability make them superlative operators in an era of increasing demands and constant change. But they also need help in maintaining their work-life balance, and keeping their all-important selfconfidence. Organisations clearly need to equip their mobile workers with more than just technology: they also need to supply attention, recognition, empathy and a constant sense of inclusion.