The traditional office is no longer the only option for businesses. More and more businesses are adopting hybrid offices, which offer in-person and remote work. As of 2022, nearly 76% of the companies in the U.S. are experimenting with a hybrid model.
A hybrid office has many benefits, including increased productivity and employee satisfaction. However, some challenges come with this type of office setup. Going hybrid is a relatively new model, and it's normal to feel a bit uncertain about how to make it work. In this piece, we share some tips that you can use to make a hybrid model work for your business and employees.
1. Define Your Goals
The first step in creating a hybrid office is to define your goals. What do you hope to achieve with this type of office? Do you want to increase productivity? Reduce costs? Improve employee morale? Once you know what you're trying to achieve, you can create a plan to make it happen.
For example, when you think about increasing productivity, try to calculate the impact you want it to have on your business. The goal might be sales revenue or increased return on investment.
2. Communicate With Your Employees
Be sure to explain the benefits of the hybrid office, such as increased flexibility and improved work-life balance. Your employees need to know what you're trying to achieve and how it will affect their work. Let them know you're open to feedback and willing to make changes based on their needs. Try to create an open communication channel where your employees feel comfortable voicing discomforts.
You can set up one-on-one and group check-ins weekly or monthly basis. This will give employees an easy way to reach out to you if they have any troubles. Further, you can also use platforms such as Basecamp, which can streamline communication between team members. Having specific forms of communication creates consistency and connection within the team.
3. Create A Flexible Schedule
One of the benefits of a hybrid office is that it allows for a more flexible work schedule. Employees can choose when and where they want to work, as long as they get their work done. It can be a great way to improve productivity and employee morale. However, it's essential to create some guidelines around the flexible schedule. For example, you may want to set core hours during which all employees must be available for meetings or other collaborations.
4. Invest In Technology
A hybrid office requires investment in technology, such as video conferencing software and cloud-based collaboration tools. Employees can stay connected whether they're in the office or working remotely. Be sure to provide training on how to use the new technologies. Along with it, investing in software such as Zoom for video conferencing or Trello for task management can be helpful.
You may also consider investing in office furniture that employees can use for in-person and remote work. For example, standing desks and laptop carts serve in the office or at home. Ensuring that employees have all the tools required for their jobs will go a long way in increasing productivity and improving employee well-being.
5. Monitor Employee Well-being
Monitor employee well-being in a hybrid office. Employees may feel isolated working remotely, so check in with them regularly. Offer support and resources, such as mental health services, if needed. You may also want to consider providing additional training on managing work-life balance. You can dedicate some time each week to a social activity where the employees interact with each other and have fun. It can be anything from friendly sports matches, quizzes, or ice-breakers.
A hybrid office can be a great way to improve productivity and employee well-being. It's critical to plan carefully and communicate with your employees to maintain a successful hybrid office. Remember that not every business is the same, so not every hybrid office will be the same. You'll have to figure out the right mix of in-person and remote work for your specific business. Some businesses may need more in-person work, while others need more remote work. It's a great idea to keep yourself open to experimenting with a few different models to find the right one.
Subscribe to the Digital Orange Juice for juicy ideas and the people who fund them. You can find out about our next pitch competitions. Also, be sure to join our new community BGV Connect!