The Hybrid Work Model: To Hybrid or Not to Hybrid?
After over two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, employers are still grappling with decisions around the hybrid work model. In fact, almost 80% of New York City employers are expecting the hybrid work model to continue moving forward. But what does that mean for your organization? How will you know if you should implement this hybrid model for your employees?
What are some benefits of the hybrid work model?
Employee Retention
Even before the pandemic, employees reported telecommuting made them more productive and feel more motivated. Employees are looking for flexibility in their work schedules. After Airbnb’s CEO announced the company’s employees could permanently work from home, or anywhere, people flocked to the career page on their website. Since making the announcement in April, over 1 million people have visited the company’s career page.
Better Work-Life Balance
The hybrid model allows employees to cut down or completely eliminate their commuting time. With New York City coming in with the longest average commute time compared with other major cities in the U.S, allowing employees that want to work from home, even just a few days a week, is a big perk for your employees. This extra time allows employees to spend more time doing the things they enjoy outside of work. When employees feel fulfilled, they are less susceptible to burnout.
What are some drawbacks to the hybrid work model?
Difficulty Cultivating Connections with Teams
This is perhaps the biggest drawback to the hybrid model. Although connecting with teams can be more of a challenge, this shouldn’t be a deal-breaker. There are several strategies managers, leadership teams, and employees can use to stay connected. For example, you can take the first few minutes of meetings to foster connections by having employees share any personal news or wins.
Proximity Bias
This isn’t one of the first drawbacks that come to mind, but it is an important one. We all have biases that affect the way we act or the decisions we make. Having some employees in the office, while others work from home can impact decisions managers make. As the old adage goes, out of sight, out of mind. For example, those employees that are physically in the office can be invited to more meetings, have more opportunities to grow, etc. because they are top of mind. This can leave the work from home employees feeling left out and disengaged. While this is a significant challenge, it can be overcome by ensuring managers are aware and vigilant of how they are treating their employees.
Should your organization implement a hybrid work model?
This is a difficult decision that depends on a variety of factors. The decision to implement the hybrid work model is a balancing act. You need to take into consideration your employees’ needs, your company culture, and the needs of the business, while also outweighing the benefits and drawbacks. You can also involve employees in making the decision. Giving your employees a chance to voice their concerns is a great way to foster a positive organizational culture.
If your company is struggling with the decision to offer a hybrid working model or how to successfully implement a hybrid working model, you’re not alone. These decisions are difficult, even for HR professionals and there is no one size fits all. If you need guidance on the hybrid work model, reach out to CJC HR Services. We’ve helped organizations implement and navigate the hybrid work model in a way that works for their specific needs.
