How are People Moving Towards Hybrid?

Ever since the pandemic began, the workplace models have transformed significantly. And the transformation changed the daily lives of numerous people all around the globe. Yes, we are talking about the trend of a hybrid workplace that didn’t just happen; it boomed, throwing us all into a remote work experiment.

What is a hybrid workplace model? It refers to blending the best of both worlds that combines both remote and in-person work. In this model, employees have the option to work from the office, from home, or a combination of both, allowing for greater flexibility and adaptability to individual preferences and needs.

But, here’s the thing, people also missed the in-person stuff, like teamwork and that office culture vibe. So, now, we’re doing a mix—some days in the office, some days at home. It’s like finding the right mix of ingredients for the perfect work recipe!

In this blog, we will discuss how people are moving towards the hybrid workspace model. Let’s get started!

According to the survey conducted by Owl Labs, 62% of employees have started working hybrid. And 73% of individuals practicing hybrid work have reported being happier.

But why so?

1. Flexibility:

Employees get to choose their work environment based on personal preferences.
This provides the flexibility to better manage personal and professional responsibilities.
This reduces commute stress.

2. Increased Job Satisfaction:

This enables individuals to tailor their work environment to enhance job satisfaction.
This grants a sense of control over work, fostering job satisfaction.
And promotes a healthier work-life balance, contributing to overall job satisfaction.

3. Productivity Enhancement:

The preferred environment minimizes external disruptions.
With this one can personalize their schedules.

4. Professional Development:

Provides exposure to different work settings and experiences.
Facilitates ongoing skill development through varied work scenarios.
Encourages connections with colleagues both in-person and virtually.

India is following the USA by adapting the hybrid work model. According to the studies, 74% of US companies have already chosen hybrid or are planning to choose hybrid.

But why are employers doing so?

1. Talent Attraction and Retention:

Attracts candidates regardless of geographic location.
Offers a desirable work arrangement, reducing turnover.
Demonstrates adaptability and employee-centric policies.

2. Cost Savings:

Limits expenses related to maintaining large office spaces.
Employees commuting less frequently can lead to cost savings.
A more flexible model can optimize resource allocation and usage.

3. Improved Employee Engagement:

Encourages effective communication through a combination of virtual and in-person interactions.
Balancing remote and in-office work can promote cohesive team relationships.

4. Agility and Adaptability:

Allows organizations to smoothly adapt to evolving circumstances.
Creates an environment conducive to creative thinking and problem-solving.
Adapts to the diverse needs of a modern and dynamic workforce.

Also Read: The Evolution of Employee Needs and Attitudes in 2024

Successful Hybrid Work Transitions:

Microsoft stands proudly with its hybrid work model. You can work from home up to half the time! Just chat with your manager, figure out your hybrid schedule, and you’re good to go. If you want more home time (more than 50%), there are some other criteria to meet for a full home office setup. Easy peasy!
Google is also into hybrid, aiming for three office days. But here’s the kicker – how those remote days play out is between you, your team, and your manager. Flexibility, yay!
Smartworks has also reported a good rise in the number of people options for managed workspace. They have seen 97% growth in revenues in FY23 and FY24. According to the founder of Smartworks, Neetish Sarda says that in comparison to a traditional office, managed offices are 30-40% cost-effective.
Stylework has also witnessed an increase in demand for individuals wanting to choose hybrid work models. They have more than 4000 happy customers under their umbrella. And more than 2500 office spaces are registered with them. As per their data, more and more companies are choosing this hybrid model, to date they have served more than 450 enterprises.

Also Read: How Gen Z Will Reshape the Concept of Work Life in 2024

But Why Are People Hesitant to Adopt a Hybrid Model?

1. Communication:

Less face-to-face communication may hinder the flow of impromptu discussions and idea-sharing.
Physically dispersed teams may experience challenges in staying informed about crucial updates and changes.

2. Collaboration:

Building and maintaining a strong team bond becomes challenging when team members are physically dispersed.
Coordinating projects across different work settings may pose difficulties in tracking progress and aligning efforts.

3. Culture Maintenance:

Maintaining a consistent organizational culture becomes more challenging when employees have varied work settings.
Integrating new employees into the company culture becomes more complex when onboarding is predominantly virtual.

Also Read: Hybrid Work Revolution: Coworking Spaces Thrive with Upcoming Trends in 2024

How to Adapt to the Hybrid Model: Practical Steps

1. Establishing Clear Communication Protocols:

Schedule consistent team and individual check-ins to discuss work progress, challenges, and updates.
Implement unified communication tools to ensure seamless and accessible communication for all team members.
Emphasize clear documentation of processes, expectations, and decisions to mitigate information gaps.

2. Building Virtual Team Spirit:

Organize virtual team-building activities to foster camaraderie and strengthen team bonds.
Acknowledge and celebrate achievements publicly, ensuring remote employees receive equal recognition.
Encourage informal virtual gatherings, such as coffee chats or virtual lunches, to replicate casual office interactions.

3. Ensuring Equal Opportunities:

Provide equal access to tools, resources, and training for both remote and in-office employees.
Implement a fair rotation system for in-office days, ensuring all team members have equal opportunities for face-to-face collaboration.
Offer flexibility in meeting times and deadlines to accommodate different time zones and work preferences.

4. Promoting Work-Life Balance:

Encourage employees to set clear boundaries between work and personal life to avoid burnout.
Allow flexibility in work hours, empowering employees to adapt their schedules to their most productive times.
Provide resources and support for mental health and well-being, addressing the unique challenges of remote and hybrid work.

Also Read: 10 Habits That’ll Make Your Work-Life Easy

5. Facilitating Inclusive Decision-Making:

Ensure meetings are inclusive and considerate of remote participants by encouraging equal participation.
Distribute tasks and projects equitably, considering the strengths and preferences of all team members.
Establish open channels for feedback, allowing employees to voice concerns and suggest improvements in the hybrid work setup.

One of the most simplest and effective ways to adapt to the hybrid working model is to let Flexboard step in. Flexboard, a Hybrid Workplace Management Solution. It seamlessly integrates with HRMS, Payroll and workspace management applications designed for flexspaces. It is specifically tailored for Admins, HR professionals, Real Estate Heads, Facility Heads, and decision-makers.

The hybrid model is likely to reshape not only how we work but also the tools, cultures, and environments that support the evolving landscape of the future workplace.