In order to remain agile in today’s evolving insurance landscape, many organizations are increasing their use of contingent workers, leveraging interim talent on an as-needed basis. In fact, a recent McKinsey study found 70% of executives plan to employ more onsite contract workers in the next two years. Research from Gartner further supports this growth, sharing that employers plan to increase their use of interim employees following the pandemic, both as a cost-saving measure and to maintain flexibility.

Last spring, insurance leaders quickly pivoted and adjusted their management strategies to accommodate the remote environment. Now, even as some organizations begin to reopen their physical office locations, work-from-home and hybrid arrangements are here to stay. As leaders develop and evolve their virtual management skills, it’s vital to account for individual employee needs, work styles and life stages to build supportive and productive teams.

As hiring managers evolve their recruiting processes to accommodate today’s primarily virtual work environment, they must also account for employees’ changing needs. Ninety-six percent of HR leaders say creating a great employee experience is becoming increasingly important, impacting not only retention, but the organization’s bottom line. However, exactly what individuals desire from a company is shifting, especially in light of COVID-19.

With catastrophe season looming, it’s time to start strategizing your talent plan for both the expected and unexpected events this year will bring. Last year saw record-setting tropical storms and wildfires. While tornado activity was below average in 2020, 2021 is predicted to have above average activity, due to La Niña. No matter what this year’s CAT season has in store, having a strategic talent plan in place is undoubtedly key to ensuring your policyholders are best taken care of in their times of need.

It’s the start of a new year and most individuals have started taking steps toward achieving their professional goals and resolutions. Last year was one like no other; goals and priorities shifted, managers led newly remote teams and external stressors weighed heavily on professionals of all levels. However, the events of 2020 also provided several lessons that will prove valuable as we enter 2021.