Tips for Hybrid Working

Hybrid working has become a norm in workplaces around the UK, with many employees now asking for more flexible workplaces when applying for roles. Even with many employers embracing the work from home model during lockdown, maintaining this structure long-term has proved to be a struggle for some companies – and workers.

Maintaining productivity and focus when you may be disconnected from other employees is the fundamental concern of workplaces that have implemented a hybrid working model. If your business is currently working in a hybrid manner, we’ve gathered some tips for anyone struggling using this model:

Open Communication

It’s a lot easier to communicate in a physical office environment, whereas working in a hybrid format, it can be easy to break the communication chain and ideas can become tangled. Having open communication in the workplace helps to establish trust and will make it easier for employees to speak to management about their problems or difficulties, especially in a hybrid role.

On top of this, there could be a lack of focus regarding expectations within teams if communication starts to dissolve, which will in turn affect productivity. Making sure employers are clear on what they expect from their teams, whether that be having a monthly meeting to catch up on progress or using a team management software, is crucial for success when working with a hybrid model.

Flexibility

One of the reasons the hybrid working model has continued to succeed is the flexibility that it gives to both employees and employers. Companies can find their own structure that works for them, as well as letting workers decide the best place and time for them to work.

This flexibility is great for employees who may have family commitments or have struggled since lockdown to go back to the office full-time. Balancing both the company and worker requirements is a great way to keep a good relationship, as well as giving the best working environment possible.

Organisation

If you are going to utilise the hybrid working model, it’s important to make sure that tasks are organised accordingly. If something can only be done in the office, then certain measures and procedures need to be in place when employees are working from the office.

In a similar fashion, for the days individuals will be working from home, it’s important to ensure that employees have all the required equipment, platforms and tools set up to complete their jobs effectively and efficiently. This will be a learning curve to begin with, but as the structure evolves, it will become the norm.

Setting Boundaries

As mentioned previously, it’s much easier to check in on employees when they are physically in the office, so making sure there are certain boundaries and working structures set up will ensure there is still the same level of control in a hybrid model. It’s also important to note that these boundaries are to benefit both parties – so employees feel comfortable and still connected with their manager or employer and as the employer, you feel confident you’re doing all you can to maintain employee morale and support.

Holding regular meetings such as a weekly catch up will help to keep the work structure in people’s minds, as well as keeping everyone connected and on track. Having a dedicated communication channel for feedback will also aid this, keeping employees engaged and making sure tasks are efficiently completed, even in a hybrid working model. This also provides one-on-one opportunities for employees to discuss any difficulties they’re facing whilst working in a hybrid environment and provide an open dialogue to resolve issues for a harmonious (and happy!) team.

These are great starting points for companies who are or looking to be in a hybrid working model to make sure things run smoothly and efficiently wherever employees decide to work!

Do you currently use a hybrid working solution and need some support? Get in touch with us today or learn more about our services.