4 Ways to Implement a Successful Hybrid Workplace
As the light at the end of the pandemic tunnel gets brighter, many employers are strategizing for long-term workforce planning. The pandemic-driven shift to remote work has revolutionized how employers and employees think about the concept of work—both where and how it’s done. The remote experiment was deemed largely successful in many sectors, prompting some businesses’ plans to continue with that model; however, the benefits of in-person communication and collaboration are undeniable, which is likely to prompt the rise of the hybrid workplace.
A hybrid workplace may look different depending on the business and the staff. For some, it could involve employers giving workers the option to remain at home fulltime or work in an office. Other companies may schedule in-person shifts in a staggered format, to support continued physical distancing. Still others may opt for a hybrid workplace that enables employees to work remotely the majority of the time and gather in person for specific, team-building meetings and activities.
Regardless of what is driving a business toward a hybrid workplace, there are common considerations all organizations should plan for this significant workforce shift.
#1. Focus on trust – it’s the foundation of any good relationship
A hybrid workplace naturally gives employees more freedom and autonomy than traditional workplaces, and so it must be built on a culture of trust. Employees should feel both physically and psychologically safe, and that starts with empathetic and transparent leadership on the part of managers and leaders. When employees are working remotely, it continues to be of primary importance to build team connections through online activities that empower employees and encourage trust.
#2. Continued Investment in the technology
Employers have seen over the last year how vital technology is to a remote working environment—and that, without a strong digital infrastructure, collaboration can’t flourish. Employees need advanced tech tools to be engaged with the work and the workplace when they’re not in the office, as well as training to ensure they’re making the most of the technology.
#3. Need good tactical solutions to go with that strategy
Hybrid workplaces are complicated by nature, with a mixture of personnel across sites, working in different formats, with varying technology at staggered times. A smart, detailed strategy is important for ensuring all of those moving pieces work well together—scheduling tools, documented policies, and stated expectations are all key for a smart hybrid strategy.
#4. Communication, as always, is the key
No hybrid workplace will be successful without transparent communication. When employees aren’t on-site, frequent and open communication from employers can help them stay informed and on track. Managers should also keep in mind that communication should extend beyond the boundaries of the hybrid workplace, checking in with employees often to evaluate how they’re handling stress and how else the employer can better support them.
With proper planning and execution, a hybrid workplace can propel organizations to even higher levels of productivity than ever before.
Partnering with an experienced staffing agency can help your company hire qualified skill candidates and ease the transition to a hybrid work model. If you need help finding the right candidates to fit your hybrid model, contact the staffing professionals at Elite Personnel. Our experienced staffing agency has been helping businesses in DC, MD, and VA since 1988.