Hybrid work has only really entered our dictionaries in the last two years. A global pandemic forced many companies to change the way they work. Even though remote work has become the new norm for many, hybrid work has become popular in the workplace, too. There are a lot of employees working remotely. In some cases, this can allow them to manage their work-life balance better, save time spent on commuting and work from a more familiar environment.
However, the ability to work from home is not something all employees have or want to develop. Some of them are more productive in an office, where employees feel they can focus better without experiencing disturbances. This is how hybrid working has slowly become something many companies are implementing. This article will delve into hybrid work, its principles and its pros and cons.
What Is Hybrid Working?
Hybrid working is understood differently by employees and companies. There are a lot of hybrid working models implemented around the world. The main principle is that employees are working both remotely and on-site. Some companies allow employees to work fully remote for three days per week and on-site for the other two. Of course, this is different from company to company.
What Does a Hybrid Working Model Mean?
It means that employees work a specific number of days per week on-site or in the office and the rest remotely. Many hiring managers and companies can adopt a hybrid working model in some form, depending on the industry you are working in and the needs and expectations of employees. Recent surveys show that some employees will consider leaving a company if not offered a hybrid working arrangement. A shift to more flexible working during the pandemic has set expectations around the possibility of working differently.
Before the pandemic, office employees were expected to be in the office from 9 to 5. A hybrid model would allow them to choose when they want to begin work, giving them more flexibility. The hybrid model puts more emphasis on outcomes, rather than being physically present in an office. As long as employees do their jobs, they maintain the flexibility they want.
Hybrid Working Principles
Hybrid work does not have a single definition. It is applied differently by companies, depending on the needs and desires of their employees. The main principle of hybrid working is allowing employees to work both remotely and on-site. However, in the case of factories or businesses where employees need to build components, for example, working from home is not possible.
What’s important to keep in mind is that hybrid working began as a means to follow the social distancing regulations imposed during the pandemic. It is, nowadays, a new working style that is used and adapted around the world.
Fostering Productivity
Hybrid working is beneficial not only for the company but also for the mental health of employees. A fixed working schedule forces employees to try to be productive and find their focus in a given time slot, i.e. 9am - 5pm.
Some employees find it difficult to focus and be productive in the morning because they work best at night. While others might find it challenging to block all the background noise and distractions that can arise in an office. So, working from home comes with the flexibility of organising your own schedule, which is a significant benefit to many employees.
This flexibility contributes positively to their health and wellbeing, which ultimately benefits the employer, too. It allows employees to organise their time so that they maximise their efficiency and productivity.
Work-Life Balance
Even though remote work has been adapted to follow the social distancing restrictions, many employees love this benefit and don’t want to see it go completely once restrictions are over. Hybrid working, allowing some home working with some office working, gives the best of both worlds and allows employees a better work-life balance thanks to the flexibility it comes with. Many employees are now actively seeking hybrid working, so it’s important for employers to implement a policy that everyone wants to be part of.
Health Protection
Ensuring the health and safety of employees is mandatory for every company. And as the global health context is still uncertain, remote workers are better protected when they work from home. Hybrid working limits the amount of time employees spend in the office, reducing the potential for viruses and germs spreading.
Saving Money
In a hybrid working model, employees will work on-site in a limited number. This can help businesses save money spent on utilities and rent, as they do not need so much space and they are not using as much energy and water.
What Are the Pros and Cons of a Hybrid Working Model?
Just like any other working style or model, a hybrid model comes with both pros and cons.
Pros of hybrid working:
- Increased employee productivity
- A better work-life balance
- Protecting the health of all employees
- Saving money spent on utilities, office rent, etc
Cons of hybrid working:
- Employees engagement may decrease in some cases
- Social interaction and support are affected when employees work remotely
Summary
Hybrid working is a new concept that entered the workplace during the pandemic, yet is likely to stay. With hybrid working, employees are allowed to work both from home and on-site. Many businesses are looking for ways to implement hybrid working in a way that works for their business needs and their employee desires, ranging from offering a set timetable, to a more flexible working arrangement.
Considering Recruiting For Hybrid Admin Roles? We Can Help!
Are you looking to hire administrators that will embrace and thrive in a hybrid working model? Do you want to hire candidates that you can rely upon? Oriel Partners can help you source the ideal administrative candidates for your business needs.
