Tips to embrace a hybrid work environment

Kiran Dham

Covid-19 pandemic has drastically altered the landscape of workplaces across the globe. In the initial stages of the viral outbreak, all of the world's processes experienced an abrupt standstill which was followed by chaos and confusion with regards to how to accommodate the changes necessitated by the pandemic. However, almost two years into the game, people and businesses alike have become acquainted with the new normal.

The ‘new normal’ in terms of workplaces translates into a hybrid work model in the current times. With the vaccines rolling out and the pandemic getting under control, the virtual model that was adopted in earlier phases of Covid was combined with the regular, physical work model to birth the concept of a hybrid model of work. This system has proved to be a success because it seeks to facilitate the operations and work of an organisation without discounting the safety norms.

Even though the situation at the pandemic front is improving steadily, we are admittedly still far from getting back to the old normal. It must also be considered that given that Covid has drastically altered the world’s choices and ways of work, many industries might never return to the old normal and just stick with the way things are now or some slight modification of the same. In this scenario, it is important to understand how one can embrace the hybrid work environment for good and make the most out of it.

 Establish effective means of communication

Absence of proper and transparent communication channels can develop a possibility of lesser productivity & obstructions. It is critical for all communication to be done in a timely and effective manner to avert the possibility of delays and mistakes. Proper communication mediums should be defined and utilized optimally to ensure smooth and clear communication.

A proper communication tool can also facilitate informal communication between employees which would lead to full-fill the social needs of employees and thereby boost their morale and productivity.

 Deep engagement & motivation

Healthy work relationships result in productivity boost & hybrid work culture might come up with the challenge of being physically distant from colleagues which can make forming the connections bit difficult. Organizations can host monthly meetups for the teams to foster the work relationships & create better sync up among teams.

 Make arrangements to confront technical disruptions

Naturally, half of the hybrid model is critically dependent on the use of technology and the internet. While working remotely, one must be ready to face certain technical difficulties and disruptions. To ensure smooth work in the face of a technological interruption, companies & individuals must educate themselves on how to troubleshoot recurring and minor tech problems. It is also important to have backup devices and internet supply options to tackle the possibility of systematic faults and defects.

 Need to have a fair and just review process

It’s been observed that working from home also generates a fear of unfair treatment among employees as working in office allows scope for face-to-face conversations & interactions with employers.

The sheer psychology of 'out of sight, out of mind' further bolsters the fear among employees however, it must be noted that all individuals have their personalized circumstances that significantly impact their preferences when it comes to choosing the location from which they do the work. To simply avoid such circumstances, there should be a fair & strong review process established that solely works on the performance & employee output.  Such equitable review process will motivate employees to work harder as they feel cared for and heard in their work environment, which would, in turn, lead to an increased amount of revenue and profits for the business.

 Summing Up

Even though recent times have witnessed respite in terms of Covid induced restrictions, the end of the pandemic is not approaching anytime soon. Hence the hybrid work model is expected to continue in the foreseeable future. One need to ensure a consistent experience for all employees, regardless of whether they work in the office or remotely. To make the most of this model, both employers and employees can take into consideration certain steps that will enhance their hybrid work experience. Some of the steps that can be taken are to be prepared for technical difficulties, have an equitable review process in place, and establish effective communication.

The writer is CEO, Globus Infocom Ltd.

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