What To Consider When Changing To A Hybrid Work Model?

Although we’ve come a long way in the battle against COVID-19, there are still multiple safety measurements that we have to follow. The restrictions are less heavy in many places, but most workspaces have been implementing a hybrid work model.

If your company had the standard in-person schedule, perhaps most of your workers are now completing their daily activities remotely. Still, switching from a working model to another takes time. Therefore, in order to create a productive work environment, every employer should have in mind certain aspects.

What is a hybrid work model?

Before we start diving into the primary aspects of the transition from a working model to another, let's get to know what a hybrid work model is with exactitude.

A hybrid workforce consists of a combined, flexible job opportunity. Employees are able to choose whether they want to attend the actual building and keep working in person or if they want to work remotely. We could say that office hoteling falls under the hybrid work model category as it has a similar premise.

However, it’s also worth noting that not all workspaces utilize the same working model. There are tons of variations that employers can implement based on the needs of the workplace or what they think is most convenient.

The hybrid work model will become the new standard in the post-pandemic world

Multiple surveys have shown the desire of workers to remain in this working model when the pandemic finalizes.

Research conducted by IBM found out that at least sixty-two percent of the study participants wish to remain working using the current model (hybrid). Additionally, at least forty-four percent of people who are working remotely wish to maintain these conditions. In contrast, the remaining thirty-five percent would like to start using a hybrid work model.

Thus, it is safe to believe that remote and hybrid work models will remain predominant even after the pandemic ends as these modalities have become the new standards. People have realized the importance of flexible work, and as both parties – the employer and the employees – benefit from it, it’s not rare to see hybrid working become the new standard.

Considerations and trends that employees should consider when changing to the hybrid work model

 A report published via The Insurance Journal has revealed multiple trends that every employer should be aware of if they want to change or are already using a hybrid workforce. Although there isn’t a “hybrid work model best practice,” considering the following aspects will make it easier to manage the new working model without having too many headaches.

1. Flexible work will become the new standard

As mentioned above, multiple surveys have demonstrated how the workers wish to maintain a hybrid working model in the long term. However, in-person collaboration isn't left behind, as it will be required any time it's needed, and it can also be an option.

Therefore, employers now have to consider setting up their office layouts and accommodating them to the new standard. However, it isn't only about how the office looks, but also about the working schedules.

2. Culture

The culture of a business is the most defining aspect of it. This aspect reflects how they are and their common goals. Hence, it is hugely important to adapt this culture to the new working model you want to incorporate into your company.

Even if there are remote workers from different parts across the globe, it's essential to look after everyone and make them sure they feel heard through weekly catch-ups. If you want to encourage relationships between co-workers, it isn't harmful to organize activities instead of focusing on work-related matters only.

Technology may keep us distant, but we cannot let it control us and take advantage of establishing and enhancing an excellent hybrid workforce model culture.

3. An excellent hybrid workforce plan should be balanced

As multiple surveys and researches have demonstrated, most employees want more flexible job opportunities with flexible hybrid remote work schedules that offer them the chance of selecting remote work over in-person attendance.

However, research published via PwC found out that a considerable part of employers considers that, in order to preserve the company culture, the personnel should have in-person attendance three days a week as a minimum.

If we take into account the factors explained in the above paragraphs; it's safe to assume that it is essential to find a balance between both proposals. "Flexibility" isn't synonymous with "free-form." Hence, a study should be performed while considering the change from a determined working model to a hybrid one.

Thus, all employers should know when they will require the presence of certain workers at their headquarters and when it will be possible for them to stick to remote working.

4. Wellbeing

Even if remote working seems to be the ideal option for most employees, that doesn’t mean that all of them have the appropriate work environment when they do hybrid work from home.

Some of them will be under stress for multiple reasons – such as childcare or isolation. Plus, please take into account that there are financial preoccupations that most of us cannot take out of our minds. All of these factors – to mention a few – have a considerable impact on our mental health.

You will not see your employees on a daily basis. Therefore, granting them the opportunity of being vulnerable by staying in touch and reaching out to them every certain period helps. Not only will it make everyone feel included, but it will also give you an idea of how your employees are doing and what you can do to help them improve their conditions if necessary or requested.

Conclusion

Hybrid working models have become hugely popular in the latest months due to the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It will become the new standard, so it is essential for all business owners to plan the transition thoroughly from a working model to another to avoid facing a huge impact that can affect their companies significantly.

Although there are more factors to consider, every workplace is different. Hence, the needs of a company will vary from one to another, and that’s why it is a bit difficult to provide advice without generalizing.

Taking into account the unique aspects of your business will make it easier for you to incorporate a hybrid work model into it.