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ALOMÉ COUTINHO , a client services and relationship manager at a large financial services organization in South Australia , switched to a hybrid work schedule last year . One of her first moves : rearranging and making a few additions to the small study she uses as a home office .
“ I ’ ve added a working desk with a swivel chair , a fan that I can move around , and a little corner for documents that I need for work ,” she says . “ I also adjusted the lighting and ensured I have a window to look out from .”
According to a 2022 Gallup Poll , eight in 10 employees are already working hybrid schedules or are fully remote . Like Coutinho , many are recognizing that the makeshift workspace they cobbled together may have gotten the job done for the past couple years , but a long-term hybrid schedule requires thinking beyond the dining table chair or lap desk in bed .
“ The pandemic proved that over 60 % of US employees hold jobs that could be done remotely at least some of the time ,” says Kate Lister , president of Global Workplace Analytics , a company that helps businesses develop remote and hybrid work strategies . “ If you work from home full-time , you ’ ll be living with your purchases for 2,000 hours a year .”
For hybrid employees working at home a typical two to three days a week , that ’ s anywhere from 800 to 1,300 hours a year . “ Beyond ergonomics , you should be thinking about durability , portability , productivity , and professionalism ,” Lister explains . She notes that products like an ergonomic office chair , wrist rest , footrest , and convertible standing desk are well worth the investment , by helping you stay productive and also maintaining your health .
A study from AT & T found that the number of companies offering a hybrid model is expected to nearly double from 42 % in 2021 to 81 % next year . So whether you ’ ve carved out a corner of a bedroom or living room or have an entire room to convert into a home office , it ’ s time to be intentional about creating an environment where you can do your best work — especially if you ’ re sharing your “ office ” with your partner , roommates , children , or pets . Here are some ideas that can make any space an ideal spot to get the job done .
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