But is it efficient? It is both efficient and inefficient. Each hybrid mode of work has its pros and cons. Many people are comfortable working remotely. Some employees have seen a productivity increase since the introduction of work from home. However, some employees simply cannot work in an office without it. Below are six challenges that hybrid working presents and how to overcome them.
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Unconscious Biases
Remote workers have less time to interact with their colleagues than their in-person counterparts. This could be time spent in the office. An MIT study found that even remote employees who are proactive and hardworking receive lower salaries, fewer promotions, lower performance ratings, and fewer salary increases than their in-person counterparts. Instead, managers should be trained to use performance monitoring and evaluation systems. This will allow them to evaluate their employees objectively. Regular catch-ups are a good way to keep work relationships intact among remote employees. Remote workers cannot meet their co-workers at work, so it is even more important for them to check in regularly. This helps them stay on top of any new promotions or projects.
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Watered Down Office Culture
Tradition has been a key factor in the development of workplace culture. This requires that everyone be present in the same space. Remote workers can openly accept outside influences and cultural beliefs. A recent survey found that 76% of respondents felt remote work had benefited the company’s culture. Positive change is more likely to make employees stay with an organization. They are also enthusiastic about their work.
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Resources underutilized
Employees may find that meeting rooms, hot desk areas, or other communal workspaces in the office aren’t being used when they return to work. These areas can be highlighted in emails or team meetings. Consider putting up signs directing people to less frequently used sites or naming these spots to increase their usage. Another creative way to increase office space is to invite small businesses to use unused spaces. If there are places to eat, drink, shop or entertain employees, they may return to work. According to Recruiters, poor communication is the main reason for low employee morale. This can lead to employees being able to do other tasks during work hours.
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Work Relations
Close working relationships can help employees be more creative. This also helps to prevent information silos from developing. In-person retreats, summits or conferences can help to build relationships. It is important to keep your video conferencing software and hardware up-to-date. Meeting facilitators using hybrid mode assist in remote worker inclusion.
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Inconsistent communication
Remote workers can feel isolated and confused if they are not in the loop. Written communication ensures that office personnel and remote workers access the information. Weekly meetings or other similar mediums can help to ensure transparency.
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Employee Overall Wellbeing
Communication openly with your supervisors is a great way to reduce stress at work. Establishing a schedule that includes when you work, exercise, eat, relax, and go home helps reduce stress levels. Meditation can help employees relax, detach themselves from work, improve their attention and recover from screen fatigue. Many apps can help employees meditate and take care of their mental health.
Hybrid work is here to stay. Although people can find solutions to problems, there is no way to eliminate them. Employers can only ensure the well-being of their employees and expect them to be productive.
