HYBRID WORK MODEL
Considering A Hybrid Work Model
The pandemic has resulted in countless employees working from their kitchen tables or living rooms rather than the office or other workplaces . However , as more Americans receive a COVID-19 vaccination and organizations develop or update their return-to-work plans , some employees may still be eager to continue working remotely , even if just for a few days each week .
This article provides an overview of hybrid workplaces , the work model ’ s advantages and challenges , and tips for accommodating distributed employees .
OVERVIEW OF HYBRID WORKPLACES
Work flexibility is consistently cited as a post-pandemic trend , and some employers are already introducing hybrid work models in their reopening plans . In fact , a Mercer survey found that 73 % of employers plan to implement a hybrid work environment . By definition , a hybrid workplace is a flexible model designed to support a distributed workforce of both on-site and remote employees .
In some form , a majority of organizations are opting for either all-remote or hybridremote arrangements . In the following workplace models , employees are allowed to make their workday flexible outside of set days or hours :
• Flex remote means employees are onsite on set days . Flex remote is likely to be a popular model to provide employees the flexibility to be on-site some days and work the other days remotely .
• Core hours means employees are available during designated times . Employers designate a block of time when employees are present , available for meetings , or working at the same time . That model helps hybrid teams intentionally collaborate , which is especially helpful if employees are located in different time zones .
• Custom scheduling may be an option for employees who want to request a specific hybrid work schedule . To support this , employers or managers may ask employees to fill out a form with their desired work schedule and locations .
These are just a few examples , but the practical application of a hybrid model may be a combination of several arrangements . Employers may also consider whether certain departments or roles need to work on-site or can be just as effective working remotely . Every organization will be different , and the working model will need to be what ’ s best for both the employer and the overall employee experience .
LOCATION CONSIDERATIONS FOR HYBRID WORKPLACES
It ’ s equally important to consider what ’ s critical for businesses when it comes to the physical workplace . Employers may consider a large headquarters or one to two main offices . Depending on the business , it may make sense to create multiple proportionately sized offices or small regional workplaces . Employees can travel to regional hubs rather than a central headquarters location that may be farther away . If a permanent office isn ’ t necessary for business , employers could consider renting flex space for periodic collaboration . Keep in mind that the focus of flex space for a remote workforce is inperson collaboration , not connectivity .
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