As a manager, implementing hybrid work can boost the productivity of your team and help you attract talent. In a survey from Robert Half and Workplace Intelligence, HR leaders said hybrid positions help them attract the greatest volume of applicants who meet the job requirements. Makes sense when 65% of workers answered they are interested in pursuing hybrid positions.Adopting a hybrid approach enhances your employer brand by sending a clear message that you recognize how important flexibility is to your employees. This not only resonates with potential new hires but also fosters pride and loyalty among existing team members, helping you retain your top performers.Hybrid work arrangements offer additional advantages:Focus and productivity: Different workspaces help employees find their groove in different situations. The flexibility to choose between a home office and shared workspace empowers employees to find the setting that maximizes their overall productivity.More in-person collaboration: Don’t underestimate the power of face-to-face connection. While many workers have been able to build rapport with coworkers virtually, the Robert Half and Workplace Intelligence research found 8 in 10 (81%) hybrid workers feel they can build stronger relationships when they see colleagues in person. With hybrid work, they get the best of both worlds. Employees work from where they prefer without losing human connection and collaboration.An emphasis on wellness and balance: The hybrid work model empowers individuals to create a work environment that suits them best, decreases time spent commuting, and increases time for professional and personal pursuits — a work-life balance adjustment many are keen to maintain. In fact, when it comes to perks, flexible work schedules and remote work options rise to the top, 65% and 50%, respectively.Lower real-estate costs: The office is no longer just a place to seat employees — it’s a hub for collaboration. Companies can reduce their office footprint without sacrificing functionality. Also, understanding how these spaces are used can guide future design decisions, ensuring that the office remains adaptable.Enhanced hiring efforts: Hybrid work allows you to hire beyond your office’s immediate vicinity. While it’s not quite the "hire-from-anywhere" approach of remote work, it does let you cast your net a bit wider. Maybe someone in a neighboring city has just the skills you need. With hybrid work, employees can still come into the office for a particular purpose but also enjoy the benefits of working from home.Further enhancing your hiring process, the research from Robert Half and Workplace Intelligence found hybrid positions typically result in the shortest time to hire.
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1. Embrace technologyThe most common change companies made in their transition to hybrid work arrangements, according to the Robert Half and Workplace Intelligence research, was adding technologies that make it easier for office workers to collaborate with remote workers. Nearly 9 in 10 hybrid workers (88%) said this was effective in motivating them to be in the office more often.Coordinate closely with your IT team when implementing these tools. It’s vital to make sure the technology supports everyone no matter where they work and provides access to key systems in your organization.2. Break down communication barriersTo prevent communication gaps between employees in the office and those working remotely, you need a rock-solid strategy, encompassing regular team meetings, video calls, instant messaging, real-time chats and document sharing. Make sure everyone knows how to collaborate effectively and use each of these channels, and encourage your team members to learn about their colleagues’ communication preferences.3. Go beyond measuring productivityWhen refining your hybrid arrangements, avoid focusing solely on metrics like productivity and overlooking elements like employee well-being. This really matters, because if a worker is unhappy, their performance will likely suffer. Many firms appear to be recognizing this, as improving well-being and work-life balance was cited by 57% of HR leaders in the Robert Half and Workplace Intelligence survey as a priority for their hybrid work strategy this year.Engagement surveys and regular one-to-ones can help you measure the extent to which hybrid employees feel heard, respected and fairly treated.4. Encourage socializing, whatever the settingKicking off meetings, whether they’re virtual, in-person or a mix of both, with icebreakers or lighthearted exchanges helps employees connect more deeply and enhances their rapport with each other. Outside of group meetings, encourage your teams to set up casual chats and virtual hangouts to foster stronger working relationships. And when everyone’s in the office, seize the opportunity to meet up, such as over a group lunch, in team-building exercises or sharing a coffee break.Hybrid work strikes a balance between traditional and remote setups. By supporting both in-person teamwork and remote flexibility, you can build an environment that suits everyone’s needs. It’s a smart way to remain agile and resilient in a changing world.Submit your resume to be considered for remote jobs.
