Hybrid work success depends on how your organization manages these employees' work schedules and worker responsibility, and what policies you should set in place.
More than 67% of employees prefer the flexibility of working remotely or under a hybrid work model. The good news for some of these employees is that the hybrid and remote work models are here to stay.
However, for organizations to flourish under these new worker guidelines, systems need to be determined to make them (and your employees) successful. This article will cover everything you need to know to help your staff and your organization thrive under these trending work models.
The Many Elements of Hybrid Worker Schedules
A hybrid worker is a flexible worker. They work from home or in another remote location. They go into the office, work in a hot-desking and other shared workstations, or set up at a corporate destination separate from the office from which they work (known as hoteling).
Here are a few other elements of the hybrid work model to consider:
- Where to Work: Location is a key element to hybrid models. Do you expect workers to remain remote, or does their schedule require a few days at the office each week or month? Develop a policy that addresses the need for time in the office.
- Time Zoning: Often, remote and hybrid workers don't work in the same time zones. Establish a "primary time zone." For example, if the corporate office is in the Central time zone, schedule telecommunications, deadlines, Zoom meetings, etc., with that time zone in mind. Hold employees accountable to knowing when they need to report for work.
- Work Hours: Establish employee work hours. Are they full-time, part-time, or as needed? Set the minimum number of hours you expect each employee to work, and clearly define that in a policy.
- Hours Policy: Determine this policy based on whether your company needs to cover shifts around the clock. Some support staff may need to work hours in the middle of the night, while others work day shifts. These policies will help hybrid workers understand what shifts they work.
- Workforce Tools: Remote staff and hybrid workers are going to need tools to do their job. From office equipment to supplies, your organization needs the policy to establish how your employees will get the tools they need to perform their job functions.
5 Things to Know About Hybrid Work Success
Although 83% of CEOs want employees to return to work, many corporations understand the value of retaining a hybrid workforce. Here is what you need to know to ensure success if your organization has determined to keep a remote workforce.
1. Hybrid Work is Good Business
The first thing to emphasize is that hybrid work will make your company more profitable. Many CEOs want employees at the office, but you can be successful without having everyone working on-site all day, every single day.
Studies show that employees appreciate the flexibility and agility of remote hours over traditional ones. It's a good option for people who are often faced with difficult decisions or have demanding schedules. It is also perfect for parents who need time to dedicate to family obligations.
Also, employees need time to do creative work and research, but sometimes they have meetings that require face-to-face interaction. Hybrid work environments are the answer.
2. Building a Cooperative Tech Platform
You and your IT department should look at platforms like Zoom, Google, Salesforce, Microsoft, Facebook, and Slack to help you stay connected using universal technology no matter where you or your employees are working. This will help you build a collaborative team with cooperative tech platforms. The innovations are all astounding. But pick one core platform.
The HR Tech market is eager to get involved. Every HR platform is trying to build features to accommodate hybrid workforces. HR and IT should work together to create a toolset that will make their departments better. The combined systems will be much more effective than either department alone, so focus on integrating them over anything else.
3. Incorporating a Wellness Program with Hybrid Work
Some hybrid work can be challenging for employees because they are juggling working at home and away from their office locations. Some people may have to deal with family members interrupting or harassing them while they try to work. Others might find that the internet is spotty when trying to get these projects done. Still, there may be those who struggle with traveling between locations.
For that reason, you must consider the well-being of your hybrid workforce. Do you offer mental health, fitness, coaching, and wellness benefits? These wellness policies will encourage your employees to focus on self-care along with their responsibilities at work. This will ensure better performance.
4. Develop a Strong IT Security Policy
Your IT security team must decide whether location data, VPN security, or policies for new passwords are required. Communicate the company's information privacy strategies and behavior principles for employees to follow while working remotely.
These messages must be communicated regularly in case of poor employee behavior when they aren't in the office, which can be tracked with modern technology
5. Experiment with New Ideas
Employees no longer "go to work." Instead, they do their work wherever is necessary to get the job done. Moving forward, an open mind is essential to ensure company-wide success.
Today, many companies are utilizing virtual reality technology in their training courses. Onboarding is done virtually and often remotely. Strong policies will aid in these transitions for new and advancing employees.
The Trust Factor for Hybrid Work Model Success
Remote and hybrid work models come with challenges. Yet, there are methods ensuring your company thrives during what is being dubbed as the new normal for corporate (and non-corporate) businesses.
Trust is a key element. You must have faith in your workforce that they are capable and will get the job done. Provide them a mission, clarity in the responsibilities, and growth opportunities. Most importantly, provide them the support they need to succeed.
That is where Kensington comes in.
At Kensington, we know what your employees will need to thrive in this new work environment. From home office set-up to portable tech accessories that take the hassle out of working from anywhere. We offer solutions that lead to hybrid work success.
To be successful with the hybrid work model, get all the tech gadgets and accessories you need. Kensington has you covered.