Should you consider a hybrid work environment?

For employees who can work remotely, yes – you should consider a hybrid work environment, a combination of on-site and remote work. 

This is the most competitive job market in a generation.  Businesses must maintain a strategy to attract, engage and retain employees.  Unfilled roles and turnover cost businesses real money.

75-85% of workers do not want traditional on-site work environments, 40-55% of workers would leave their job if they were asked to come in full-time, and 70%+ of workers are less likely to leave if they are offered substantial remote work.

Not only is considering a hybrid model essential to recruit and retain employees, but remote work options show at least a 5% increase in worker productivity.

In the current state of the workplace, 74% of US companies are transitioning to permanent hybrid models.  Stay competitive!

What should you consider with a hybrid model?

Survey your people – what do they want to see in a hybrid or flexible work environment?  Would they like specific days where the team is all together?  Would they like flexible hours, if your work environment can allow this? 

Identify which employees are able to work remotely some of the time. 

Some employees can never work remotely, such as retail and manufacturing employees.  Be sensitive that they have limitations and less flexibility than others.  Someone who can work remotely does not need to use a PTO day when they are sick.  They are not able to accommodate an appointment with a plumber or a delivery that requires a signature.  What are you able to offer workers who do not have that option?  You can consider offering additional sick or PTO days. 

How will you maintain a sense of connectedness, high communication and a strong culture?  Consider which occasions you will request that all or most employees attend, such as All Hands meetings and social events.  Be sure to uphold a constant leadership presence in the office. 

Strategize on logistics such as how managers and peers know how you locate each person; when will this person be in the office and how will they easily communicate when working remotely?  You will also have the benefit of saving on the cost of office space by sharing desk space.

People are our greatest resource

Seize the opportunity to maximize productivity and retention with your team.  Attract, engage and retain your team.

Sources:

Maurer, Roy. Socity for Human Resources Management. “Job seekers are gaining control over hiring.” June 29, 2021.

Tsipursky, Gleb. Forbes. “How to measure the success of your hybrid work model.” December 15, 2022.