The traditional workplace is evolving. With the rise of technology, employees are no longer confined to a physical space in order to do their work. In fact, many employers are now adopting a hybrid working model that allows employees to work remotely part-time or full-time. This trend has been dubbed the "remote revolution." While there are many benefits to this type of arrangement, there are also some challenges that need to be considered.
In this blog post, we will explore the different types of hybrid work environments, and provide tips on how to make them successful.
The Three Different Types of Work Models
Today, there are three different types of workplace models; on-premises, remote, and hybrid. In the past "going to work" meant heading into a physical office to sit at a desk from nine to five. However, since technology has advanced and the worldwide pandemic hit, working models are much more diverse.
While the on-site work model is the longest-running and most traditional style of work, it has taken a back seat to completely remote work models.
As the pandemic restrictions have been lifted, many employers have transitioned to a hybrid work model where employees spend a portion of their time on-premises and a portion of their time working from home
as the pandemic restrictions have been lifted, many employers have transitioned to a hybrid work model where employees spend a portion of their time on-premises and a portion of their time working from home or wherever else they choose.
The Benefits of Adopting a Remote or Hybrid Work Model
There are many benefits to adopting a hybrid working model. Some of these benefits include increased productivity, decreased overhead costs, improved work-life balance, and increased employee satisfaction.
Some of these benefits include increased productivity, decreased overhead costs, improved work-life balance, and increased employee satisfaction.
Many working professionals have enjoyed the shift to remote work in recent years because it offers a better work-life balance, saves money on transportation expenses, aids focus and productivity, and decreases social anxiety. In the same vein, many workers also miss the social aspect of being on-location, so a hybrid model provides the best of both worlds.
In a hybrid model, employees have time to be quiet and productive when they work at home on remote days. When on-site employees experience the benefit of company culture while feeling supported by a broader community.Ā
While there are many advantages of working in a hybrid model, itā€™s important to consider the challenges that come along with it as well.
The Challenges of Adopting a Remote or Hybrid Model
One of the challenges that come with adopting a hybrid work model is the potential to fall into a lack of proper scheduling and organization. Within the hybrid work model, there are many different structures that can be carried out. Some employers allow their workers to choose when they are remote and when they are in the office. Others set a schedule or outline requirements for a minimum of days or hours the employees must be on-site.
With so many different options, employers often take some time to figure out which schedule works the best for their company. Similarly, the transition into a hybrid work model from a formerly remote model may also receive pushback from employees who would rather remain remote.
Transitioning from an on-site model to a hybrid model also comes with a transition period as new digital tools and processes are implemented.
Transitioning from an on-site model to a hybrid model also comes with a transition period as new digital tools and processes are implemented.
Because of these challenges, everyday business procedures may be put on hold or slowed down with constant changes and adjustments which may hurt your ability to grow and scale. When transitioning to a new work model, you may also risk losing employees to jobs that are entirely remote.
Read more: Hiring For Retention During The Great Resignation.
Thankfully, these challenges are solvable. With some planning and preparation, your company can successfully implement a hybrid work model.
Have Clear Guidelines and Expectations
When making the transition to a hybrid operating model, or any change in work models, it is important that employers have clear guidelines and expectations for their employees. This means having an open conversation with your team about what the new work model will look like and how many days or hours they are expected to be on-site or working remotely.
It is also a best practice to roll out these changes with an appropriate time notice. Many workers will need to adjust their transportation arrangements and some workers will be unhappy about these changes, so it's ideal to allow time for your employees to adjust, plan, and meet with their leaders to address any questions or concerns.
Once these guidelines and expectations are set, it is important to hold employees accountable for meeting them.
Once these guidelines and expectations are set, it is important to hold employees accountable for meeting them. This can be done by setting up regular check-ins, one-on-ones, company-wide meetings, and team meetings, to ensure that everyone is on track.
Communication is Key
A successful hybrid work model requires strong lines of communication between employers and employees. Leaders should develop an open-door policy so that employees feel comfortable coming to them with any questions or concerns they may have. Additionally, it is important for employers to provide regular updates on company changes and how they will affect employees.
Itā€™s also crucial to establish how workers will communicate with each other while some are remote and some are on-site. This can be done by utilizing digital tools such as video conferencing, instant messaging, and online project management platforms.
Boost Your Company Culture
Ensuring that employees feel connected to their company culture is also crucial in a hybrid model. There are many ways to stay connected with employees, even when theyā€™re not in the office.
One way to do this is by organizing social events and team-building activities, both in-person and online. Core employee resource groups are also a great way for employees to connect with each other and feel like theyā€™re active participants in a community.
Core employee resource groups are also a great way for employees to connect with each other and feel like theyā€™re active participants in a community.
Another way to boost company culture is by investing in employee well-being, development, and growth. This can be done by offering training, mentorship programs, and professional development opportunities. By investing in your employees, youā€™re showing them that you care about their career growth and development.
Prioritize Implementing Digital Solutions
Many of the challenges that come with a hybrid operating model can be solved with digital solutions. Utilizing a project management platform can help with organization and collaboration between employees. Video conference calls can help with communication and feeling connected to co-workers.
There are many different types of software and hybrid work tools available to make the transition to a hybrid model smoother. By taking the time to research and find the right digital solutions for your company, you can make sure that your employees have everything they need to be successful in a hybrid model.
Reassess and Adapt
When making the transition to a hybrid model there will always be bumps along the road. Some employees may resign, some technologies won't perform properly, and some processes will be realized as simply inefficient.
It is important to reassess how the hybrid model is working on a regular basis and be open to making changes. This can mean anything from changing the number of days employees are expected to work on-site to investing in new technologies. Business leaders can also invite collaboration with employees to brainstorm new hybrid solutions.Ā
The most important thing is that employers are willing to adapt and change as needed so that their employees can be successful.
By following these tips, hybrid companies can set their employees up for success. Creating clear guidelines and expectations, investing in employee development, and utilizing digital solutions can help make the transition to a hybrid model smooth and successful.
Read our blog for more employer tips like The Dangers of Being Slow in the Hiring Process: How Companies Can Speed It Up To Attract Top Talent or The Top Reasons You're Losing Candidates or Trends Driving the New Post-Pandemic WorkplaceĀ
