create a winning hybrid environment
Since the COVID shutdowns in 2020 many employers have struggled to return to the 9-5 onsite status quo. After having time working from home more employees are choosing to remain home. As a compromise, many employers have decided to offer a hybrid work schedule.
The most popular hybrid schedule is three days working onsite at the office and two days working remotely from home. This schedule is a great way for employees to have a work/life balance (saving travel time to and from work), however; some employers are having trouble getting into the hybrid groove.
Here are some tips on how to create a winning hybrid environment:
Make sure you have the technology in place to handle remote meetings and presentations. Not having tools such as Microsoft teams or Zoom make it very difficult for employees on remote days to stay connected with the office and their peers. Cloud-based systems work best and don’t forget cyber security!
Create a schedule where employees on a team have the same onsite work days. This gives the team a chance to meet and collaborate face to face weekly.
Set realistic expectations and firm deadlines for work completion. This ensures that wether working from home or onsite employees understand what needs to be done and when.
Ask for feedback! Asking for feedback (especially after implementing a new hybrid work schedule) is key to ensure that employees understand the how’s and why’s of the new arrangement.
Trust your employees! If you hired the right ones, they’ll work just as hard at home as they do in the office.