Making A Success Of Your Business’s Hybrid Working Model

Listen in! Pick up some expert advice to a reader's question that we selected from CyberSchmooz.

Hybrid working models can save businesses a combined $500 billion per year, according to Fox Business. More than 60% of high-growth companies are currently using a hybrid working model and this number continues to grow. But, a recent report from Microsoft highlighted the common mistakes businesses make when allowing their employees to split their time between the office and home. Here’s how to ensure your business avoids these issues.

Improve work-life balance

Less time commuting to work should mean employees have a better work-life balance. However, Microsoft reports that over the past two years, employees are working more outside of standard working hours (28%) and at the weekend (14%). This puts workers at risk of burnout which is damaging to your business and could lead to long periods of employee absence. It’s your job to encourage your employees to stick to their allocated working hours. It’s also good practice to get your workers to work the same hours at home as they do when they’re based in the office. Finally, avoid contacting workers out of hours as this often makes them feel they have to respond.

Provide the right equipment

Two-thirds of workers say they prefer a hybrid working model, but this doesn’t mean they have the right home set up to do it safely or successfully. As an employer, you should provide your workers with the right tools and equipment for them to do their job. This equipment will differ from colleague to colleague. For example, an employee who works from home in a confined area, such as a closet or under the stairs, will need a smaller chair, desk, and screen than someone working in the spare room of their home. It’s important to promote a healthy workspace, no matter what size it is as it helps to create boundaries which are crucial for focusing on tasks.

Promote relationships among colleagues

42% of hybrid workers say they haven’t maintained relationships with their colleagues. This is a common problem among hybrid workers but it's not good for your business. A lack of bond between workers can affect performance, productivity, and job satisfaction. Keep relationships healthy by regularly having get togethers. These can be both in-person and remotely. At the start of Zoom meetings set aside 10 minutes for everyone to have a chat. When your employees are physically in the office, suggest small groups go out to lunch together or introduce a coffee morning and catch up.

Hybrid working can mean bigger profits for businesses. But a little attention should be put into perfecting your hybrid working model so that it benefits your organization and your employees as much as possible.

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