The Everyday Tasks North Carolina Workers Struggle With
One of my favorite memes that makes the round from time to time is about how Millenials have to work Excel or do other relatively simple technical tasks for their older bosses. Yet that person needing help with the simplest of tasks typically makes 2-3 times the salary. And let me tell you, it’s entirely true and something I have encountered repeatedly since being in the workforce. In all honesty, it sums up so much of the job landscape these days. When I was sent this research from our friends at VoiceNation about the struggles North Carolina workers as well as those across the country struggle with- I had to take a look.
The study focused on the “everyday struggles that U.S office workers face in their job roles”. According to VoiceNation, the research was conducted in October 2023. It showed 37% of U.S. workers struggle with the tasks they are expected to perform in their jobs. What were the most common tasks that workers just aren’t able to do? That they probably listed as skills on their resume?
The top one coming in at 81% of people saying they struggle with is trying to use formulas in Excel. And if I’m being transparent sometimes I have to do a quick Google search for these. It’s just not something I do often. But a simple search almost always gives me what I need. Second, on the list was very similar to “setting up tables in Excel”.
There is also “formatting a Word document”, I’m judging anyone who can’t do that one- sorry to the 77 percent of respondents who struggle with this. Seriously 77% of you?
Here are some of the other struggles:
- Formatting a presentation
- Attaching a file to an email
- Saving documents in a new file format
- Sharing a screen on a video call
And the largest section of the population that admitted to their incompetence in their roles? It was ages 35-44 which also comes as a surprise to me. When it comes to North Carolina workers 23% reported that there are simple tasks they struggle with. Companies perhaps a quick Microsoft Office training/refresher would be beneficial to your employees. Thanks to our friends at VoiceNation for sharing their research with us. You can read the full study here.
North Carolina Employers Here Is What Your Employees Actually Want
Listen To Your Employees
This is such a big one. Everyone wants to feel heard, and when employers are making decisions with no regards to the people who have to execute those decisions? Well, it’s not going to be as successful as it could potentially be. You don’t have to take every suggestion. But letting people know they have a right to an opinion, and that they are heard- it can do wonders for morale. The last thing employees want is to feel like a worker bee whom no one in ownership or management respects. Who better to help figure out how to make things run smoother and more productive than those doing the actual work? And you can’t solve a problem that you don’t know exists.
Regular Reviews
Check-in with your employees. Performance reviews done correctly can have an immense benefit to both employers and employees. It can increase morale by giving you an easy platform to praise what an employee is contributing. And also identify areas that need improvement and how to best implement strategies to help the employee with that. Plus when employees see that they are valued it can go a long way in increasing productivity and long-term success. Frequent reviews can also allow employers to identify any issues within a team and take action to correct those issues.
Encourage Development
Most employees don’t want to feel stagnant in a role. If there is no room for growth and development tasks become mundane and in turn, good employees can and will look elsewhere. Training can benefit the employer as well. Think of it as an investment. You have to spend money to make money. It’s also another way to show your employees that you value them and care about them and their careers.
Ensure Work-Life Balance
This is such a big one. I know for me personally I will go go go, but I will also burn out fast. I need that time to recharge. And especially after covid workers are demanding a work-life balance. Like it or not in order to maintain a valuable workforce, employers are going to have to comply. Whether it’s a flexible work schedule, days off, or encouraging physical fitness or mental health. A good work-life balance ensures productive and motivated employees. What employer does not want their employees to be less stressed?
Change Your Office Space
I’ve worked hard to make my office an oasis. Mood lighting, a stand-up desk, a walking pad treadmill, and decor that is “me”. Many people will still be more in favor of working from home (not a topic I want to get into at this point) or at least a hybrid work situation. A welcoming environment can make employees feel at home positively impacting and company culture.
Fair And Living Wages
And in this economy the one thing your employees want? It’s money. It’s not pizza or a pullover with your logo on it. It’s to be paid a living wage. It’s yearly raises that outpace inflation. It’s the best way to show your employees their value. The people who pull the most weight in any given company are almost always the lowest compensated. Mangers have an important job no question. But when you neglect to fairly compensate the others? You cannot and will not be successful long term. So invest in your people. You want them to work hard for you? Pay your employees their worth.
To See You Working Hard As Well
If you aren’t willing to work hard, why would your employees? Be visible and don’t let any job be beneath you. Spend time working directly with your employees, or perhaps offer to help with something. Being willing to help speaks volumes. And noticing when that help may be needed. It makes your employees feel seen. If all you are doing is delegating, there is a good chance that will be noticed. And it’s hard to respect a manager who has no problem throwing work at people but refuses to do the work themselves.
