Hybrid workplace models are becoming increasingly commonplace as remote work transitions from a trend to a standard practice, thanks to advancements in technology. It is projected that 80% of workers will continue to experience the benefits of hybrid work post-pandemic, marking a significant shift towards digital transformation in many companies. But what exactly is a sustainable hybrid model, and how can one be established?

A sustainable hybrid workplace model prioritizes employee experience and happiness by supporting a blend of in-office, remote, and on-the-go workers. Employees are given the flexibility to choose where and how they work most effectively. This not only promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion but also boosts overall efficiency.

The hybrid approach also enables businesses to attract individuals with specific skills, gain a competitive advantage, and enter new markets by accessing larger talent pools. With productivity round-the-clock and a supportive organizational culture that values individuals for their contributions regardless of their physical location, the hybrid model is an ideal solution for both employers and employees.

With this in mind, it is important to consider some key tips for transitioning to a hybrid working approach:

1. Clearly define your virtual work policy: Establish a clear policy outlining when employees are expected to report to the office, if there are specific days for teams to be present, and the minimum number of days to be physically in the office each month.

2. Set expectations and communicate effectively: Define roles and responsibilities clearly, establish communication guidelines, and schedule regular one-to-one meetings to monitor progress and ensure high engagement.

3. Specify outcomes and enable team autonomy: Focus on outcomes rather than processes, empower employees to work when and where they are most productive, and provide the necessary tools and resources to support their success.

4. Embrace flexibility: Allow employees to choose their most productive work hours and locations, and offer multiple options for remote and on-site work to promote organization and productivity.

5. Support remote work advocates: Invest time and effort in creating a digital workplace that meets the needs of all employees, and appoint team members as digital tools ambassadors to provide guidance and recommendations.

6. Leverage Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): Encourage the formation of ERGs to promote diversity, inclusion, and employee well-being, as well as to provide opportunities for skill development and team bonding.

7. Coach managers on managing a hybrid environment: Train managers to be empathetic, attentive, and supportive of both in-person and remote team members, and prioritize relationship-building and purpose-driven leadership.

8. Focus on coaching over supervision: Help managers develop coaching skills to empower team members, foster growth, and boost engagement and productivity.

9. Provide managers with the necessary tools for success: Equip managers with performance management and collaboration tools, and encourage open communication to better understand employees’ needs and motivations.

10. Collect ongoing feedback: Establish channels for employees to provide feedback regularly, such as surveys or dedicated communication channels, to foster a culture of continuous improvement and employee engagement.

11. Schedule regular team meetings: Plan frequent team meetings to facilitate idea sharing, feedback exchange, and team building, especially for remote team members who may feel more disconnected.

12. Embrace change: Encourage a growth mindset and regularly review and adjust workplace practices to ensure alignment with company values and objectives.

13. Create a great workplace experience: Design engaging experiences and events for both in-person and remote employees to maintain a positive workplace culture and enhance employee satisfaction.

14. Prioritize mental health and inclusion: Support employees’ mental health and well-being, involve absent team members in activities, and use technology to facilitate collaboration and communication.

15. Put health and safety first: Implement health screening technologies, adjust leave policies to accommodate sick employees working remotely, and promote remote work for ill employees to ensure a safe work environment for all.

16. Monitor promotion and project distribution: Ensure promotions and opportunities are based on performance rather than visibility, and address any disparities in promotion opportunities for less visible employees.

17. Invest in supportive systems for flexible work: Invest in technology and tools that support remote and on-site work, and establish clear guidelines for scheduling and collaboration.

18. Streamline technology use: Implement digital tools and applications that facilitate communication and collaboration, and ensure alignment with corporate best practices and standards.

19. Optimize workstations: Maximize office space for a hybrid workplace model, considering the needs and preferences of employees to create a functional and flexible work environment.

20. Lead by culture: Emphasize the importance of organizational culture in a hybrid work environment, prioritizing communication, trust, and collaboration to foster a cohesive and positive workplace culture.

21. Clearly define job expectations: Communicate job requirements and expectations clearly during the hiring process to enable candidates to make informed decisions, and discuss the hybrid workplace model and opportunities available within the company.

22. Share important documents and data: Provide access to necessary files and information for remote workers to prevent security breaches and ensure that employees have the resources they need to perform their jobs effectively.

23. Continue investing in virtual work: Conduct video conferences for all meetings to ensure remote employees feel connected and engaged, and organize virtual social events to maintain team cohesion and communication.

In conclusion, the hybrid workplace model offers a flexible and sustainable solution for modern organizations looking to adapt to changing work trends. By implementing these tips and strategies, HR and facility managers can create a successful hybrid workplace model that promotes employee well-being, productivity, and engagement, leading to a more efficient and inclusive work environment for all.