The Pros & Cons of Hybrid Working…what is the future?
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Covid changed many things in our lives…who would have dreamed of working from home in your dressing gown! Now four years later, what is the future?
A simple summary may be that employees have more control over their schedules, which leads to a better work-life balance. This flexibility can also increase overall employee job satisfaction.
Many workers report being more productive at home, with fewer distractions and the ability to create a more personalised workspace…however, this can depend on the individual and the type of work they do.
Similarly, the correct layout and with access to all the necessary job requirements, workstation assessments etc.
Both companies and employees save on commuting costs, office space, and other overhead expenses. Employees also save time by cutting out daily commutes, which can improve mental health and wellbeing.
Hybrid working allows companies to hire talent from anywhere, not being limited by geographical location. This helps tap into a broader talent pool, especially for specialised roles. That said, this takes remote working to a different level! The flexibility offered by hybrid work arrangements can make companies more attractive to employees, reducing turnover and increasing loyalty. Think about reduced environmental impact, as with fewer people commuting and offices being less occupied, hybrid working can contribute to lower carbon footprints.
OK…It clearly has much going for it! Or has it?
How about communication? While virtual tools help, there can still be a gap in communication and collaboration between remote and in-office workers. It can be harder to form team cohesion when some members are physically absent.
Is there a chance that in-office employees may get preferential treatment in terms of visibility, opportunities for advancement, or decision-making, leaving remote workers feeling sidelined?
With employees working in different locations, it may be harder to sustain a strong company culture. In-person interactions often foster camaraderie and connections that virtual environments cannot fully replicate. Remote workers may experience feelings of isolation or disconnection from the team, especially if they’re out of the loop in casual conversations or office events.
Managers may find it difficult to oversee and track productivity effectively in a hybrid environment. It requires a shift in how performance is measured, relying more on outcomes rather than hours worked…perhaps the latter is a benefit?
How about technology and security concerns? Managing cybersecurity across remote and office settings can be challenging. Companies need to ensure that employees have secure devices, VPNs, and data protection protocols to prevent breaches.
Where does all of the above leave us! The future of hybrid working will likely include more sophisticated hybrid work models, using advanced tools to improve collaboration and employee engagement. How about a stronger emphasis on results-oriented work environments (ROWE) rather than fixed hours or locations.
What do you think!?
“Focus on being productive instead of busy.” Tim Ferriss
