In this article, we’ll be considering the pros of hybrid offices. Before we proceed, let’s answer the question: “What is hybrid work?” According to Parallel, the hybrid work model streamlines working processes by blending office-based, remote, and semi-remote employees, giving all employees the autonomy they need to work productively. Even though there are many benefits of hybrid working, there are a few cons of hybrid working as well. However, considering the hybrid work model definition, it indicates a largely positive outcome which implies that the benefits of hybrid work model make it a worthwhile switch for most companies. For employees, they tend to achieve a better work-life balance which boosts productivity and efficiency at work. On the flip side, some employees in supervisory capacity will argue that they’ve had it difficult managing their teams and it’s a major disadvantage of hybrid office layout to their overall productivity index since they have lesser control. Companies maximize the benefits of a hybrid workplace structure by splitting work equally between remote and office. A medical staff administering vaccines to patients at the hospital while another colleague tracks patient records from his remote location is a common hybrid work model example during the pandemic. Now, let’s consider 5 pros of hybrid offices:

1. Better working relationships

Many organizations see more innovation when employees can interact collaboratively. If the interaction is only virtual, companies can miss out on employees being fully innovative. Collaboration is easier in a traditional work setting, employees have the opportunity to socialize and share useful information which stimulates their minds to innovate. Adopting a hybrid office model allows employees to enjoy the best of both worlds. Workers can collaborate in person while also working remotely.

2. Better work-life balance

To maintain a healthy working environment, work-life balance is key. Stress, fatigue, physical ailments, and mental health problems can impact workers when there is no proper work-life balance. Organizations that prioritize work-life balance are more productive. Hybrid offices offers proper work-life balance because employees have the option to work both remotely and on-site. Workers can properly prioritize their work while giving room to meet important day-to-day commitments.

3. Enhanced productivity

According to a report by Boston Consulting Group (BCG), over 50% of managers believe their teams are more productive working from home. Working remotely gives room for flexibility because workers can work from their chosen location. It also reduces distraction which is common in a physical office environment, there are fewer interruptions and loss time. Being able to concentrate enhances productivity. Furthermore, absenteeism is often an issue in on-site working, remote working reduces it and increased engagement. For example, an employee wouldn’t need to apply to have a whole day off for feeling sick in the morning. On the other hand, physical office spaces can be equipped with modern communication technology devices which employees can maximize while on-premises and handle outstanding assignments for when at home.

4. Improved management-staff relationship

The flexibility a hybrid work model offers can enhance employee loyalty. Sometimes, working in-office can make workers feel like they are being “watched” and in some cases, this can develop negative feelings in some workers towards the management. With remote working, employees feel more empowered and in control of their time and space. It enhances mutual respect between employees and employers. While employees are being productive, employers as well are not wasting time micromanaging.

5. Better visibility of employee performance

Evaluating employee performance is important to understand areas of strengths and areas where workers need to improve. Hybrid offices make use of various software to enhance collaboration among teammates and managers. Managers can know at a glance how teammates are faring and can provide support to underperforming employees in real-time. With a hybrid structure in place, employees who are high-performing can be rewarded by being allowed to enjoy the freedom and flexibility from working remotely while underperformers can be given in-person support. In conclusion, hybrid working will very much likely be what most organizations would resort to when the coronavirus pandemic ends, it is almost certain. Think about what would be best for your small business post-pandemic. At Remo, most staff work from home every day. The pandemic has made working from home compulsory. Organizations are looking for ways to adapt and develop flexible solutions to allow employees to work safely both from home and in the office setting. Many working models exist and the nature of work determines what model would be adopted. However, we can conclude that organizations that adopt a hybrid work style are providing their employees with fairer working conditions. Employees who enjoy the hybrid work model will most likely have a better outlook of their company. They would feel more independent, productive, and healthier. They would have higher job satisfaction and better physical and mental wellbeing than employees who work only from home or onsite. In this difficult time, organizations must adapt to the ‘new normal’, however, they must first and foremost understand the needs of their employees and ensure that their well-being is being catered for to guarantee a safe, healthy, and productive future moving forward.