Episode 329: How to Stay Ahead in the New Era of Work with Mary Shea

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GUEST: Mary Shea, Global Chief Evangelist at HireQuotient

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The rapid advancement of technology, especially in AI, has profoundly impacted all industries and is reshaping the way we work.

As AI continues to evolve, the future of work presents both challenges and opportunities.

The outdated business playbook must evolve. Success requires a shift in mentality, internal processes, operations, and even values.

We were wondering:

How is the future of work changing, and how can you adapt to these changes effectively?

To help us with this today, we have Mary Shea, Global Chief Evangelist at HireQuotient. With over 25 years in business, Mary has held various roles, including CRO, Analyst, Evangelist, and, most recently, Co-CEO at companies such as Mediafly, Outreach, Forrester, and StartOut.

Is Flexibility the New Office Norm?

The future of work is evolving. Flexibility and freedom are key. While in-person collaboration is valuable, it's clear that today's workforce seeks a hybrid model that balances remote and office work. Companies should focus on creating meaningful reasons for employees to come into the office beyond just free lunch by ensuring that in-person time delivers real value and fosters collaboration. Ultimately, the responsibility is on leaders to make the office experience worthwhile, aligning it with the needs and expectations of a diverse, multigenerational workforce.

“I don't devalue in-person collaboration and work, and I think it's absolutely important. But I think there are other ways of doing it.” ‍

Mary Shea, Global Chief Evangelist at HireQuotient

Why Flexibility and Purpose Matter More Than Ever

If you want to attract top talent and be a leading employer, flexibility is key. It's more than having an office in a prime location; it's about recognizing that the best person for the job might be working remotely from anywhere. Employers need to ensure that in-office work is purposeful, whether it's for a project or team collaboration, not just to fill days. It's also important for early-career employees who benefit from in-person support and learning opportunities. On the flip side, employees must take ownership of their careers, finding ways to connect with executives and colleagues, even if it means stepping out of their comfort zones.

“You could pay me a million dollars. I would not give up the flexibility.”

Mary Shea, Global Chief Evangelist at HireQuotient

Embrace the AI Change or Get Left Behind

AI is transforming our world, much like electricity did in the 19th century. While some fear it will replace jobs, the reality is that AI will augment our work, making us more productive and freeing up time for what matters most. The key is to adapt, which includes upskilling, getting educated, and embracing the changes ahead.

“I never expected in my life that I would see something more impactful than the Internet in the way we communicate, work, and talk with others. I do think it's going to be bigger than that in terms of the societal and social impacts. Fasten your seatbelts and let's get ready for the ride.”

Mary Shea, Global Chief Evangelist at HireQuotient

How to Shine in a Competitive Job Market with AI

If you're in sales or looking for a job, you must be proud of your role and clearly highlight your achievements on your CV and LinkedIn profile. Instead of just polishing your resume, make sure your social profiles are up-to-date and specific, including revenue numbers and accomplishments. Companies are increasingly relying on AI and automation tools like HireQuotient to find the right candidates, so being detailed and clear about your experience can help you stand out in a competitive job market. Remember, everyone is selling something, so embrace it and showcase your value.

Future-Proof Your Career

As the future of work is evolving fast, staying ahead means adapting to new tools and embracing continuous learning. Technology is advancing, so it's crucial to align your skills with the right opportunities and stay curious. Whether you're starting out or advancing in your career, use every resource to improve your engagement and remain open to change.

“Let's keep our humanity right as we embrace all these other tools and techniques.”

Mary Shea, Global Chief Evangelist at HireQuotient

Now that you know how you can adapt to the new era of work, discover the full list of episodes at The B2B Revenue Executive Experience. If you enjoy the show, instructions to rate and review it are found here.

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