Reimagining Work

In a world permanently changed by the COVID-19 pandemic, 'Reimagining Work' offers a timely and urgent exploration of how work is being reshaped—and how it should be. This interdisciplinary volume brings together scholars and practitioners from communication, leadership, education, psychology, and organizational development to confront the challenges and possibilities of the evolving workplace.
More than a reflection on remote and hybrid trends, this book is a call to rethink foundational questions: How do we honor human dignity in technologically mediated environments? What leadership strategies are needed to navigate generational dynamics, digital fatigue, and rapid innovation? How do communication technologies both enable and constrain productivity, connection, and inclusion?
With historical depth and forward-looking insight, the contributors examine four central themes: (1) the theoretical and historical underpinnings of communication in digital workspaces; (2) the unique strengths and tensions of multigenerational teams; (3) the influence of communication technology on collaboration and performance; and (4) the ethical responsibilities of leaders in shaping a future of work that is both innovative and humane.
At its core, 'Reimagining Work' centers the human experience. It argues that while AI and digital platforms are vital, they must serve—not replace—empathy, agency, and community. Leaders and organizations must design systems that are not only efficient and adaptable but also inclusive, equitable, and responsive to diverse needs.
Whether you are an academic, a manager, a student, or a policymaker, this volume equips you with insights and frameworks to actively shape a future of work where technological advancement and human flourishing go hand in hand.

List of Tables
Introduction: Reimagining Work
Chapter 1 From Smoke Signals to Slack: Historical Perspectives on the Evolution of Workplace Communication
Dr. Tommy Kibera Kiilu
Kenyatta University
Chapter 2 Looking Back to Look Forward: Industrial Era Utopian Workplaces and Implications for Work/Life Approaches Today
Katherine Hampsten
Communication Studies, St. Mary’s University
Chapter 3 Generational Perspectives: Understanding and Leveraging Diverse Attitudes Towards Work in the Post-Pandemic Era
Donna Roberts
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Chapter 4 Bridging the Gap: A Generational Lens on Workplace Talk
Dr. Jyoti Kukreja
New Delhi Institute of Management, Delhi
Chapter 5 From Suits to Sneakers: Generational Attitudes about Return-to-Work Mandates
Alyssa Obradovich and Samantha Szczur
Eastern Illinois University
Chapter 6 Revisiting Netiquette in Post-COVID Intergenerational Workspaces
Taylor Dumsky
Division of Graduate Studies, SUNY Oswego
Samantha F. Quinn
Department of Communication Studies, SUNY Oswego
Chapter 7 Media Choices and Communication Performance in a Remote and Hybrid Work Environment
Leigh Maxwell
College of Business, Communications and Technology, Edgewood University
Chapter 8 Does Working from Home Increase Productivity? Evidence from Executives in an Emerging Country
Quan Vu Le
Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Truc Thanh Tran
Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics and Finance
Chapter 9 Changing Nature of Leadership in the Transformative Era
Pitshou Moleka
Managing African Research Network / Kinshasa (DR Congo) - Earth System Governance Research Fellow
Conclusion: Charting a Resilient and Inclusive Future
Leigh Maxwell
College of Business, Communications, and Technology, Edgewood University
About the Contributors
Index

Dr. Maxwell is an accomplished educator and researcher with over two decades of experience in the field of communication studies. Holding a Ph.D. in Telecommunication and Electronic Media from The Ohio State University, Dr. Maxwell currently serves as a Full Professor of Communication Studies at Edgewood University in Madison, Wisconsin.
Throughout her career, Dr. Maxwell has dedicated her research efforts to exploring communication dynamics within the workplace. Her research portfolio includes in-depth studies on various aspects of workplace communication, ranging from healthcare provider interactions to communication patterns among different generations in professional settings.
As a passionate advocate for effective communication practices, Dr. Maxwell has contributed to the field through her insightful research findings and expertise. Her work sheds light on the complexities of interpersonal communication, nonverbal cues, and the evolving nature of professional interactions in modern organizational settings.
In addition to her research endeavors, Dr. Maxwell is a respected educator, teaching a diverse array of courses such as interpersonal communication, professional communications, business ethics, nonverbal communication, and organizational leadership. Her commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of communication dynamics among students is evident in her engaging teaching style and dedication to student success.
Dr. Maxwell's latest contribution to the field comes in the form of the edited volume titled "Reimagining Work: Bridging Innovation and Human Dignity in Remote and Hybrid Workspaces." This groundbreaking book delves into the fundamental shifts occurring in the modern workplace, offering insightful perspectives and practical advice for maximizing technological possibilities and creating collaborative and productive work environments.

Organizational Culture, Organizational Change, Post-Pandemic Workplace, Generations in the Workplace, Workplace Communication, Communication in Remote and Hybrid Work Environments