Hybrid work, what is it and why is it such a popular topic upon returning to work now?

Hybrid work is allowing employees a flexibility model in where they work. This could be a mixture of remote, in-office, or both for their employees. Now the Hybrid model can’t be adapted in all sectors because of customer-facing services where this type of model just wouldn’t work or apply.

Hybrid is a very popular option amongst employees. A majority of employees polled stated that they would look for employment elsewhere if some sort of flexible work arrangement between in office and in a remote location, wasn’t provided. The Pandemic proved that employees can do the same job at home, if not better, than the office environment. Why should that change now that the world is starting to open up? And a majority of employees have clearly made that point.

The benefits aren’t only for employees but for employers as well.
-Employees when they have a cold, instead of coming into the office and risking getting others sick if it’s not severe, can still work from home and self-care, helping to reduce workforce impacts and high volume of attendance concerns.
-Companies now can save on expenses and instead of renting out costly work sites, can downgrade and re-invest in smaller hybrid locations for employees with lesser monthly costs.
-Companies can also hire globally, allowing for perhaps more specialized skilled workers and an overall ROI regarding an increase in production for the employer.

Working remotely can have its challenges at times and why it’s so important that the company or manager sets rules and expectations to make sure that there is open communication regarding participation from all the team members. This could be if the remote option is full-time, perhaps daily huddles to connect with everyone. Checking in throughout the day in a team chat, whether it be sharing concerns regarding a specific scenario so everyone can provide feedback, examples, insights, or just guidance. Having a team chat can also help to feel inclusive, and provide a positive supporting work environment.

Employers/Managers should get creative with icebreakers during team meetings as well. It helps to connect with other employees, network, provide creativity and just get to know better who you are working with. Overall, this can only encourage growth in the workplace whether permanently remote or hybrid.

Remember, throughout this process, it’s important that employers continue to listen to their employees. What is working, what isn’t, what needs improvement, what could work etc. Employee feedback is so important as to help an employer stay relevant with the needs and changes in today’s work environment but foremost to retain and not lose talent overall to the competition.