How to Overcome the Challenges of Hybrid Work
While companies are preparing to bring their staff back into the office, some consider a hybrid work schedule as the new norm. This arrangement allows the employees to continue to work remotely while lowering the business’s overhead costs, but it does come with challenges. But how is this new schedule implemented at no expense to their employee experience?
The specifics must be planned out for your individual business needs, and if done correctly, a hybrid work schedule can be a win-win for everyone.
Here are a few common problems and solutions.
Misalignment between in-office and remote employees
Hybrid working can create a disconnect between employees working in the office and those not. One of the main appeals of hybrid is the balance between independence and collaboration, and you need to make sure your hybrid working arrangement encourages both.
One way to overcome this problem is to set specific days for in-office work and make those days focus on collaboration. In contrast, the days when everyone’s working from home are reserved for more independent work, which doesn’t require (as much) in-person interaction.
Office Costs
Depending on how your company intends to balance this new schedule, keeping a dedicated office could waste resources. With a hybrid work schedule, you will need some office space.
One of your best options is probably a coworking office space or another company to share it with.
Labor costs
It makes sense that remote employees aren’t entitled to reimbursement of travel expenses and should instead be compensated for using their own internet and electricity. But how do you balance that in a hybrid setting?
Offer the employees the choice and let them know of the tradeoffs and/or changes to their benefits in advance. They can then decide on what is best for them.
Managing the Employee Experience
A hybrid schedule is a big disrupter in traditional office settings. Company culture is experienced much differently for employees mainly working in the office versus those working remotely. This is especially relevant for new employees who need to get onboarded in a remote or hybrid setting.
Strive to keep the experience as balanced as possible and remember to offer everyone the choice. Plan company events with hybrid top of mind, potentially in combination with more in-person get-togethers, and ask other companies what they do on this issue.
Work Webb can assist you to implement a hybrid work schedule with its menu of options. We have two locations, Daytona Beach and Melbourne, Florida, with dedicated parking and conveniently located to restaurants. Read what our happy clients have to say about our services and call us to schedule a tour.
