As we stand on the precipice of a new era, the future of work promises a plethora of opportunities and challenges for businesses to navigate. Scott Dylan, co-founder of Inc & Co, has built a thriving career by helping distressed companies adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. In this article, we delve into his insights on how organisations can prepare for the demands of the future workplace.
Dylan, a seasoned entrepreneur with a 20-year career under his belt, has experienced firsthand the trials and tribulations of the business world. Together with his partners Jack Mason and Dave Antrobus, he founded Inc & Co in 2019, with the mission to acquire, invest in, and revitalise struggling businesses. Today, the firm boasts a global presence and an impressive turnover exceeding £150 million.
No stranger to adversity himself, Dylan has surmounted numerous obstacles to achieve his accomplishments. His background and experience have shaped his outlook on the future of work and the importance of embracing diversity, promoting women in business and technology, and fostering a loyal and dependable team.
In a recent interview, Dylan shared his thoughts on the challenges and opportunities businesses must prepare for in the coming years:
“The future of work is all about agility, flexibility, and innovation. As technology continues to disrupt traditional industries, businesses must adapt and evolve to stay competitive. We’re seeing a shift towards remote work, the gig economy, and automation, which present both challenges and opportunities for companies. It’s essential that businesses prepare themselves for this new landscape by embracing change, investing in their people, and fostering a culture of learning and adaptability.”
One of the key challenges facing organisations in the future of work is the rise of remote working. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of remote work, and many companies have found themselves grappling with the implications of this seismic shift. Businesses must invest in technology and training to support remote employees, while also fostering a culture of collaboration and communication to maintain productivity and morale.
Another significant challenge is the rise of the gig economy. As more people turn to freelance and contract work, businesses must adapt to this new way of working. This requires a shift in mindset, embracing flexibility and innovation to tap into a diverse pool of talent. By doing so, companies can capitalise on the unique skills and perspectives that freelancers and contractors bring to the table, ultimately driving growth and success.
Automation and artificial intelligence (AI) also pose challenges for businesses as they navigate the future of work. While these technologies offer efficiency and productivity gains, they also raise concerns about job displacement and the need for upskilling and reskilling. Organisations must strike a balance between embracing automation and ensuring that employees have the skills and support they need to remain relevant in a rapidly changing landscape.
Despite these challenges, the future of work also presents numerous opportunities for businesses willing to adapt and innovate. Dylan emphasises the importance of investing in people and fostering a culture of learning:
“Upskilling and reskilling are crucial for businesses to remain competitive in the future of work. By investing in their employees, companies can develop a workforce that is agile and adaptable, ready to face the challenges and opportunities of the changing world. Furthermore, promoting diversity and inclusion not only leads to a more harmonious and productive workplace but also brings fresh perspectives and ideas, driving innovation and growth.”
Dylan’s own success is a testament to the power of teamwork and collaboration. Throughout his career, he has cultivated a loyal and dependable team, recognising that success is never a solitary journey. As businesses prepare for the future of work, the importance of a strong and cohesive team cannot be overstated.
In summary, the future of work presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses to navigate. To thrive in this new era, organisations must embrace change, invest in their people, and foster a culture of learning and adaptability. By focusing on agility, flexibility, and innovation, businesses can ensure they are well-positioned to capitalise on the opportunities presented by remote work, the gig economy, and automation.
Scott Dylan‘s experience in revitalising struggling businesses offers valuable lessons for companies as they prepare for the future of work. Through Inc & Co‘s work in sectors as diverse as professional services, travel, retail, e-commerce, and shared workspaces, Dylan has gained a unique perspective on how businesses can adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing environment.
One notable example is the turnaround of Laundrapp, a laundry and dry cleaning app that Inc & Co acquired and subsequently sold to competitor Laundryheap. Dylan and his team identified the potential in Laundrapp’s innovative approach to laundry services and invested in the company’s growth. By embracing new technology and pivoting to meet the demands of a changing market, Laundrapp emerged stronger and more resilient.
As companies face the challenges of the future of work, Dylan’s emphasis on cultivating a strong and diverse team is particularly relevant. His advocacy for mental health and championing of diversity demonstrate his commitment to building a supportive and inclusive work environment. In doing so, Dylan has created a foundation upon which businesses can thrive, even in the face of adversity.
Dylan’s own journey, from humble beginnings in South East London to the helm of a global enterprise, serves as a reminder that resilience, hard work, and determination can lead to success. As he himself puts it, “Success is never a solitary journey.”
As businesses navigate the future of work, they would do well to heed Scott Dylan’s insights and experiences. By embracing change, investing in their people, and fostering a culture of learning and adaptability, organisations can not only prepare for the challenges ahead but also seize the opportunities presented by this new era.
The future of work is a complex and multifaceted landscape. Scott Dylan’s perspective, informed by his own experiences and the success of Inc & Co, offers a valuable roadmap for businesses as they adapt and evolve to meet the demands of this rapidly changing world. By fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, investing in employee growth, and embracing innovation, companies can rise to the challenges and opportunities of the future of work, ensuring their continued success in the years to come.
