Every organization has its own unique factors that will determine the viability of a hybrid environment in their workplace. How leaders decide to leverage their unique drivers and embrace new trends will define the future of their workplace. Considerations include:
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- Managers are distressed and disconnected from their workers. There are fewer opportunities for managers to check in with employees while they work remotely, making many employees feel undervalued.
- High productivity is hiding an exhausted workforce. Connected to more technology than ever before, expectations of employees have increased substantially, causing digital exhaustion at home and in the office.
- Some people are more productive when working remote. With more control over their home environment, employees can limit distractions and focus more on their work.
- Remote work opens the door to diverse talent. With no need to relocate, commute or alter schedules, work from home appeals to a once inaccessible talent pool.
- The need for physical office space will never go away. The office is the home base for all employees and is necessary to facilitate meaningful connections, collaboration and wellbeing.
- Flexible work is becoming the new norm. The hybrid workplace is an investment that, given the right tools and resources, can lead to maximum productivity and employee wellbeing.
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As the world begins to turn again…
Employee schedules will be far from traditional or regular. Outstanding obligations such as children, health issues and family care will continue limiting employee availability during standard business hours. A flexible workplace will encourage a smooth transition to a new norm. Leaders will need to guide their employees as the workplace moves hybrid and offer necessary tools to facilitate work and enable collaboration between the two environments.
There’s no cookie-cutter hybrid workplace format—finding the right balance is up to business leaders.
As decisions are made, contact between employees in and out of the office is crucial. Detailed employee feedback regarding new protocol, new technology or new programming will foster intentional decision-making during the shift to a flexible workplace. Leaders must assess the current situation, address concerns with employees and create a culture where communication is paramount. After this, a well-defined workplace can be leveraged to attract the best talent.
Restructuring the workplace is a daunting task.
That’s why we’re offering Hello Hybrid—a guide to defining, developing, and implementing a hybrid environment in your workplace. Learn more here. Be sure to follow our social media channels and #hellohybridworkplace as we post excerpts from each chapter of the book!
What environment are you more productive in: home or office? We’d love to hear from you, leave a comment by filling out the form below!
Sources:
The Next Great Disruption Is Hybrid Work—Are We Ready? – Microsoft
What’s Up Remote – DORIS Research