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A hybrid working model is a new type of working standard that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It combines the best features of traditional work and flexible work arrangements. As the name suggests, this model is compatible with the changing needs of the world and the demands of modern workers.
Why has this model become so popular? There are many reasons: first of all, it offers a variety of advantages to employees, including improved work-life balance and flexible hours. Secondly, it helps companies adapt to changing markets and trends. And thirdly, it’s cost-effective in terms of time and resources.
So far, so good! But what impact has the hybrid workplace had on employees since its roll-out? Let’s find out in this blog post.
Table of contents
- Hybrid Model at Work: What is it?
- How did companies onboard the hybrid work concept?
- A survey by IWWAGE
- How does the model work?
- Types of Corporate Work Models
- Transitioning from legacy to hybrid model
- Advantages of hybrid working model
- How to implement a hybrid working model in your company?
- Employee Impact
- What employees say?
- Disadvantages of the hybrid working model
- LinkedIn Survey results
- Today, how are companies treating the hybrid model?
- How employees up-skill when working remotely?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
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Hybrid Model at Work: What is it?
Covid-19 has impacted work in many ways. Some employees have had to take time off work for health reasons, while others have had to work longer hours to meet deadlines. Organizations have embraced the hybrid working model. It offers employees a variety of opportunities, both professionally and personally.
For example, hybrid working models offer flexible work hours, remote work opportunities, and on-site work/office space options. Additionally, hybrid working models help remote workers learn new skills and use their strengths in addition to traditional work hours. Employees need not be in-office or in-person as the corporate training has adapted to the changing needs.
You can implement a hybrid working model in your organization through policy, procedure, or culture change.
How did companies onboard the hybrid work concept?
The hybrid work model, as a concept, has been around for quite some time. But it’s gaining a lot of traction in the workplace these days.
CEOs of many companies have been gradually onboarding the hybrid working model over the past few years as part of the company culture, as it offers many benefits for employees and employers.
The profound impact of the pandemic on the workforce and companies have led them to adapt to survive. Hybrid working models were among the many ways companies tried to cope. The model provides flexibility and cost-efficiency.
83% of the workers prefer Hybrid Working Model as per recent study conducted by Accenture “Future of Work Study – 2021.”
A survey by IWWAGE
Before we understand how this model works, let’s see what the survey by IWWAGE reveals on the willingness of women opting for hybrid model.
Women aged between 33 and 55 are more inclined to adopt hybrid work arrangements. However, the majority of women who fall within this age group but choose not to go for the hybrid option hold junior positions.
Among these respondents, 35% prefer to work in-person despite being offered the hybrid alternative. Conversely, for women who have the option of hybrid work but continue to work from the office every day, many of them state that they have no caregiving responsibilities or dependents at home.
This might explain their decision not to embrace the flexibility that hybrid work offers. Here is the link to access the full IWWAGE survey report.
How does the model work?
The hybrid working model is a new way of working that combines the best features of the traditional and flexible work model.
The traditional work model involves people coming to work at a set time each day and staying until they have completed their assigned tasks. On the other hand, the flexible work model allows workers to work from home, on the go, or in any mode that works best for them.
It means they can start their day with a traditional session at their desk, followed by some time working from home, and then ending the day with some time spent on the go. It provides flexibility and variety for workers while ensuring that they complete their assigned tasks.
During times of crisis, like the pandemic, it’s often hard to balance work and home responsibilities. This model allows employees to maintain their jobs while taking care of family.
Types of Corporate Work Models
There are a variety of work models available to businesses. Some examples include:
- The 9-5 model:
The office-first type of model is dependent on physical presence and face-to-face interaction.
- The on-call model:
This type of working model allows employees to be available for shifts as scheduled, but with the option to be called in at any time without warning.
- The flextime model:
This model allows employees to choose their working hours during the day based on their own needs.
- The hybrid work model:
This combination of traditional and flexible working models allows employees to mix elements of both modes throughout the day. It provides the most flexibility for workers and ensures they can complete their tasks.
Transitioning from legacy to hybrid model
Businesses in the transition phase to the post-pandemic environment face multiple challenges, one of which is implementing the hybrid model. Several considerations need to be thought of when implementing the hybrid model, such as:
- Ensuring employees are on board with the new work model and its benefits.
- Determining who will be in charge of implementing the hybrid model at each location.
- Ensuring everyone is on the same page about how the implementation works.
- Preparing timelines for transitioning to the hybrid model, including details of when the tasks will complete.
- Evaluate the success of the hybrid model after rolling out and making necessary adjustments to sustain the model.
Some challenges associated with this type of workplace include time management and emotional stress levels among employees. However, with proper planning and execution, hybrid work can be a successful model that supports employees and allows them to work from home in a flexible environment.
Advantages of hybrid working model
The hybrid working model has been an advantage for businesses and workers since the pandemic began. The model allows for creativity and flexibility, which promotes healthy work culture. Companies can tap into their resources more efficiently, and employees can take breaks when they need them without worrying about losing their jobs.
It is helping people adapt to a new normal while maintaining productivity levels. So, whether you’re a small business or an employee, it’s crucial to stay on top of the latest trends in hybrid working models to stay ahead of the curve and benefit from its advantages.
How to implement a hybrid working model in your company?
Hybrid working models are becoming more popular as they offer several benefits for both sides of the equation. Employees prefer them because they enjoy the flexibility and efficiency that comes with them, while employers appreciate them because they reduce costs and improve productivity.
There are a few things you need to consider to implement a successful hybrid working model in your company:
- Plan for Flexibility:
Make sure you have arrangements in place so that employees can seamlessly shift between their regular work schedule and other opportunities that come their way. This way, everyone is comfortable with the changes avoiding any clashes or misunderstandings.
- Address Issues Early on:
While implementing a hybrid working model, address any problems early on. They must not spiral out of control. Doing this will help prevent conflict and make everyone happier in the long run.
- Promote Cooperation:
Encouraging team members to cooperate by introducing incentives will go a long way. It can be bonuses or awards for those who go above and beyond their duties. It will encourage everyone to work together towards shared goals, even if they’re from different departments.
Employee Impact
Employee’s benefits of adopting a hybrid working model
It’s vital to start thinking about how to manage team members. A hybrid working model is a fantastic option for many reasons. Not only does it improve communication and collaboration, but it also reduces health care costs. Plus, employees can enjoy improved productivity and morale.
There are a few key benefits that employees enjoy. These include:
- Reduced stress levels.
- Increased flexibility.
- Improved workflow.
- Greater control over their time and personal lives.
- Increased opportunities for growth and development.
- Productivity and efficiency uptrends.
- Allows employees to take time off when sick or in need of a vacation.
- Enhancing the work-life balance of the employees.
What employees say?
The idea of the Hybrid Working Model cannot be underrated. There are days I want to visit the office for some reason and connect with my colleagues, but there are days I know my body needs rest, and I can’t pull further. In that scenario, I would prefer to work from home and still be trusted to deliver. At that point, I stress physically & mentally and wouldn’t want to be in traffic or go through the stress of catching the next bus to work. I believe Hybrid work culture brings fantastic balance to the work environment.
Okemute-Beatrice Usinoma, Consultant at Optiva Capital Partners
I had a feeling it would turn out like this. I also believe having fewer commuters on the road will have a significant positive impact on our environment.
Kevin Bunten, Vice President, Avantu Water
Disadvantages of the hybrid working model
It is not only the advantages, but any model also has its disadvantages, and the hybrid work model is no exception. There are a few disadvantages that have surfaced during this time through remote employee feedback channels. Organizations and HR teams must keep a watchful eye on the below and take necessary steps to mitigate them:
- Employees experience increased workloads and a possible employee bias.
- Increased competition between departments.
- Challenges when it comes to empathy and employee engagement.
- There is increased tension and conflict among employees.
- Lack of trust and communication in the workplace.
- Employees experience difficulties reorganizing work when change occurs. It can be expansions, time zones, or contractions in customer base or department size.
The future of work is increasingly becoming hybrid, but that needs to be more sustainable and beneficial. Many companies have documented their experience and best practices to manage employee retention focussing on diversity and inclusion.
LinkedIn Survey results
A more recent independent LinkedIn survey across different forums revealed the below stats:
You can use this data in any format, including social media, blogs, and presentations.
Please cite the source as Hoomale and link to https://hoomale.com/hybrid-working-model-post-pandemic-impact/
Today, how are companies treating the hybrid model?
The hybrid model is becoming increasingly popular in the aftermath of a pandemic. It allows for more flexibility and productivity while still maintaining a work culture. The traditional work model can be restrictive during a time of crisis. Companies have started to accept the new normal and are implementing a full-fledged hybrid work model. In any case, this model is proving to be a successful way for companies to adapt and lead the way during difficult times.
The hybrid work model is one of the many strategies to keep businesses afloat during this turmoil. This work arrangement allows people to continue their careers while recovering from the pandemic. Additionally, it’s less stressful for employees, as they don’t have to worry about losing their jobs if they get sick or injured.
Many businesses report that the hybrid work model is a successful post-pandemic strategy. It is because it allows employees to work from home or from anywhere.
How employees up-skill when working remotely?
Many employees are now working remotely, a trend that will continue to increase.
There are multiple benefits to remote work, including the fact that employees can up-skill when they need to without traveling. In a traditional office environment, employees attend regular meetings and training sessions to keep up with their colleagues. However, with remote work, these training sessions can be held virtually instead – meaning that employees can learn at their own pace and when convenient.
Another benefit of remote work is it allows employees to be more flexible with their work hours. That is especially useful for people with family or personal obligations that prevent them from being available in the office during regular working hours. As long as they set their remote work schedule appropriately, they can still get the job done without feeling restricted or stressed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
For starters, there is the risk that the company’s culture will change. It can lead to conflict and stress amongst employees. To mitigate this, companies may decide which tasks are most important and allocate resources accordingly.
Employees may also feel burdened with additional work or less control over their time. To combat this, companies may need to provide employees with clear instructions and a work schedule to minimize distractions and maximize productivity.
The hybrid working model helped businesses in a few ways during the pandemic. For example, by using online technologies like Skype, Teams, Zoom, Slack, and email, businesses kept connections alive with clients even if they were not physically present.
It was helpful for companies that operated in remote or hard-to-reach areas. It also allowed them to maintain operations and keep staff intact, even during the pandemic.
Also, the companies tapped into a talent pool of remote working professionals that were previously inaccessible. It also includes gigs.
Conclusion
The hybrid working model is a beneficial way of working in the current environment. By mitigating challenges, companies can keep their employees productive and maintain customer contact. By 2024, the leaders of many companies believe that a hybrid working model will be the future and integral part of the work culture.
Disclaimer: The post may contain affiliate links.
