06 Feb Latest Blog – Hybrid Working

As employers seek to build and enhance their workplace culture in 2024, we anticipate that there will be a scaling back of hybrid working.

While there is no doubt that it will still be sought after by candidates, with a focus on employee health and wellbeing, work futurists see the lone worker missing out on the whole employee experience. This becomes extremely important when recruiting and offering the most attractive packages.

The introduction of more flexible and remote working options has expanded the global talent pool for businesses, but it has made collaborative working more difficult and opened up new conversations about loneliness, inclusivity, and team building opportunities.

Many business owners also believe that productivity is affected when employees work from home and, in the current climate, efficiency is key.

Some workers miss the interaction with colleagues and the opportunity for side by side working which allows quick questions, more helpful impromptu discussions and sharing best practice without having to call a meeting.

However, many workers would argue that remote working allows them less distraction and increased focus. And despite worries of isolation, there will be some candidates who still want to work from home to help with childcare issues or the cost of commuting.

Every situation is different, and each company/candidate has different needs, but the ever-changing dynamics of a workforce and the scarcity of good talent means business owners must be vigilant about the way they approach hybrid working.

Many remote working options were enforced as a result of the pandemic. The changes happened quickly and without much consideration, so there is little surprise that they don’t work for all and that businesses are now rethinking the idea in the long term.

However, rather than choose one extreme or the other, it would be wise for employers to review their hybrid working arrangements regularly to check they are effective for both parties. One idea could be to implement set office days to allow for team meetings and collaborative working, while the rest of the time individuals who work better in their own space can optimise their efficiency at home.

That way the worker is more likely to benefit from flexibility while the employer sees the best rate of productivity. Whatever the decision, employers must ensure their reasoning is properly explained and understood to avoid any struggles with staff retention.

If you need help with retaining staff or growing your team, or you need advice on hybrid working when employing new staff, call us today on 01536 512202.