Overcoming The Challenges Of Hybrid Working

Hybrid working models can save businesses up to $11,000 per employee, according to Ladders. 63% of high-growth companies currently use hybrid working models, so it’s clear to see that it can have a positive impact on an organization’s profits. Despite the financial benefits, hybrid working does come with some challenges. Here’s what they are and how to overcome them.

82% of workers say they consider their colleagues to be friends. But it can be difficult for hybrid workers to form and build relationships. When a new member of the team starts, hold a virtual meet and greet so everyone can introduce themselves. While work meetings are important, aim to keep 10 minutes at the beginning or end of the meeting to chat about normal things rather than anything work-related. This will encourage people to get along and show their true selves. It’s also a good idea to arrange an out-of-work meetup every so often to help people get to know each other.

75% of people say it’s best to have a home office away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the house. But not every worker has a spare room they can turn into an office. The good news is more and more hybrid workers are thinking outside the box and are transforming rooms such as their attic, basement, and dining room into a dedicated area to work from. Even a small quiet area in the kitchen, under the stairs, or built-in closet can work well. Just make sure your employees are comfortable, close to natural light, and have a room divider, to prevent any awkward Zoom blunders, such as a flatmate gate-crashing an important meeting.

83% of employees say they favor hybrid working, according to Forbes. However, other studies have found this figure to be as low as 44%. The challenge you’ll have is that some employees just won’t want to split their time between working from home and in the office. This can lead to workers who are disengaged and unproductive. It’s important you give your employees the chance to voice their preference and to do all you can to ensure their wants are met. For example, if a worker really doesn’t want to work from home, don’t make them as there’s a risk to your business and your worker’s happiness.

Communication plays a role in productivity, employee satisfaction, and building trust. When a hybrid working model is followed, there’s a risk that individuals think only of themselves rather than how their work impacts others. It’s crucial that all employees know who their work affects and the necessity of updating other employees. Crucial business updates must be shared with everyone. Hybrid workers must also have access to communication tools at all times so they keep themselves and everyone else up to date.

It’s common for issues to arise when you’ve adopted a hybrid working model in your business. Thankfully, there are ways to tackle these problems so that your business continues to thrive.