The Anti-Work Movement: Reality of current working conditions
I’m sure we’ve all heard of the ‘great resignation.’ Similarly, the ‘anti-work’ movement has now risen in popularity. Contrary to what its name may indicate, many people involved in this movement are not purely against labour, but tired of the low pay, poor working conditions and increasing wealth inequality stemming from systemic issues.
“We're not against effort, labor, or being productive. We're against jobs as they are structured under capitalism and the state: Against exploitative economic relations, against hierarchical social relations at the workplace.” - r/antiwork
Although this has been an inherent problem, the pandemic truly exemplified and highlighted this issue. According to a recent report by Brookings Institute, “Company shareholders grew $1.5 trillion richer, while workers got less than 2% of that benefit.” During the last few years, wealthy corporations have managed to have record profits, but during this same time frame, unemployment rose dramatically, and many small businesses had to close while bigger ones were able to receive bailouts.
Despite being deemed as essential workers, many individuals were expected to work with low wages, no sick leave and inadequate working conditions during these times.
For white collar workers, the ability to work from home has also been eye-opening. The reduction of commute times, more freedom during business hours and extra time with family, brought to light issues of the previous working environment, and now, many are reluctant to return to office.
Effects on Australians
With the recent pandemic, increasing inflation and high property prices, the future outlook for many young Australians has become quite bleak. Recently, the RBA has announced that the real wages of Australians will fall by 3% this year, indicating that it will fall to 2014 levels. It is evident that this situation cannot continue.
What can companies do to maintain employee satisfaction?
Despite there always being possibilities for workers to unionise, strike, and stand for their rights, at the end of the day, these decisions regarding working conditions are in the hands of corporations. An enterprise should and can always make changes that benefit both themselves and their employees.
Be willing to accept feedback from employees
The best way to find out how your business practices may need to change is to talk directly with your employees. They are the people directly impacted and also likely know what they need, to be happy
2. Be flexible
There should always be a balance, but it is essential for employers to understand the various circumstances of their employees. This can include being understanding with their schedules, their comfortness with being in office or their health conditions
3. Ensure compensation is fair and reasonable
Provide transparency on how an employee's work is valued, whether that is with company profits or market values.
We understand that there can always be conflicting visions between organisations and employees. The anti-work movement is about starting these integral conversations so that stakeholders can come to compromises before it is too late.
Feel free to also share your personal experiences with us regarding this issue. Hopefully this post was insightful and we’ll see you next time!