Gillette’s most recent financial update results, particularly across its wet shave range, were disappointing.

This follows the struggles of the Dollar Shave Club, recently sold by Unilever.

There are a number of explanations for this. Role models – such as Clooney, Momoa, Gyllenhaal and Elba – sporting facial foliage are a definite factor.

Also put forward was the view that hybrid working has created an environment whereby “…less time spent with others means less time concerned with others’ opinions…including grooming standards”.

Putting aside the issues of beards, how much further can we apply this construct?

Does spending less and less time working in close proximity with others mean we have less and less interest in those peoples’ views and opinions?

Does working from home reduce the notion of teamwork? How is culture impacted if other peoples’ opinions go unconsidered? How does collaboration fare? Or are we more decisive, less bureaucratic, more fast moving?

One to ponder, whilst thoughtfully stroking one’s chin.

About
Neil Harrison is recognised as a leading employer brand specialist, creating insights and actionable intelligence around key people audiences. Internal employee communities, as well as external talent pools. These are insights which will help drive informed EVPs and their associated employer brands. Factors such as Brexit and a tightening labour market mean that organisations serious about talent acquisition need to act based on knowledge rather than guesswork.