The hybrid work model: exploring a new era in business

The pandemic has introduced enormous shifts in many peoples’ work cultures. In 2020, most companies had to adapt to remote work culture for safety, and now in 2021, even though some countries have lifted COVID-19 restrictions, most employees don't want to give up their remote work status.

Currently, many companies across the world allow their employees to continue working remotely while others want their staff to work from the office. Some have left it entirely up to the workers to decide their place of work.

This is how the hybrid work model has become a popular new option. In fact, some companies had already implemented it even before the pandemic. Now, many businesses will need to adopt a hybrid work model to adapt to our current situation.

Management consulting company McKinsey published a survey about the future of hybrid work in May 2021. From December 2020 through January 2021, they analyzed responses from 100 leaders from organizations across the globe. 90% of them said they will be combining remote and on-site work policies in their organization.

What is a hybrid work model?

The hybrid work model is a flexible model allowing employees to work from home and at the office. Each company can customize this model based on their own needs, which often differ according to industry or role.

Variations of the hybrid model

Flexible location

In this option, employees can choose the work arrangement that works best for them—either working from home or working on-premise. It’s particularly useful for those who frequently change their work schedule. This model is considered the most flexible work arrangement.

Split-week arrangement

In this model, employees can split the week and choose to work from home two to three days and work on-site the other days. This model offers reduced in-office time while enabling managers to stay connected to their teams and collaborate-person regularly.

The weekly plan

In this version, employees can choose their place of work on a weekly basis. This alternative is used to support specific teams to work together at the same time and avoid over crowding. For instance, the marketing team can come to the office one week and the product team can come the following week.

Making the hybrid model work

Create policies and procedures

It's important to create policies and procedures that support both remote and on-site employees equally. In many cases, companies give more value to workers who work from the office—even unintentionally. Implementing a policy for all employees, regardless of where they work, can help develop a work culture that suits both types of employees.  

Consider what your employees need

Make sure to be mindful of employee needs when creating your hybrid work policy. Send surveys and questionnaires about the hybrid work model across to your team or organization. Collecting this feedback will help you frame a hybrid work model that everyone wants.

Invest in modern tools

Analyze your current tools to see sure if you have the system to support your hybrid model. Update existing tools or invest in new solutions such as cloud file management systems, video conferencing applications, and other communication tools to connect your remote and on-site teams.

How Zoho ensures employee connectivity

Preparing your company for hybrid work can be challenging. Organizations must ensure they have the right tools in place to support both remote and on-premise teams. Major technological upgrades will play a significant role in this change.

Zoho provides the necessary tools to connect your distributed workforce. No matter where your team members are, Zoho ensures that they can access necessary files, collaborate with peers, communicate with clients, and complete tasks faster.

Hybrid work culture is here to stay. In our world of competitive business, organizations willing to revamp their work model and adapt to these changing times will stay ahead. If done right, a hybrid work model will allow companies to work better, widen their talent pool, achieve innovation, and increase productivity.