Hybrid work – The dawn of a new era?
It’s a changing landscape where the working model has completely changed. Organisations and employees alike are realising the benefits of the hybrid work model. Instead of the traditional 9-5 workday model, a hybrid model is more preferable, and a combination of in-person and remote working resulting in flexibility, improved employee engagement and organisational cost efficiencies.
The two main pillars of this working model are autonomy and trust, and can help to build a positive culture and independence in the organisation. Employees freely choose the way they work and as such maximise their productivity. This means it’s a win-win situation for the employees and the organisation!
Although there are of course some advantages of the traditional 9-5 work day, the benefits of the hybrid model outweigh these advantages, and proves that the advancement in technology, global changes, and cultural shifts have changed the way we work. Research has shown that many large and well-known organisations are transitioning from the traditional 9-5 work model to a hybrid model. Take Deutsche Bank and Ford for example:
Deutsche Bank
Subject to eligibility approval, employees at the German banking giant are free to work from home for up to 60% of the work week. As with several companies that follow a more rigid hybrid model, all employees must agree on the details of their hybrid setup with their manager to ensure the transition is seamless.
Deutsche bank prefers a hybrid work model to increase the productivity of the employees while providing them freedom of choice. This means the place and style of work are at the discretion of employees in a hybrid work environment. A hybrid model cannot be successful without intentional execution, review, monitoring and assessment, and Deutsche Bank could be leading the way in making these new processes seamless.
Ford
In a surprising twist, automotive giant Ford announced they would move to a hybrid work model. Then again, Ford is familiar with adopting new working methods, having pioneered the 9-5 approach way back in 1905. Keeping the above example in view, it has also proved that the hybrid work model is effective and efficient for both the employers and the employees.
Benefits of the hybrid work model
- Increased Work-life balance: Eliminating a commute can save employees multiple hours a week spent just getting to and from work. An improved work-life balance improves employee satisfaction and well-being and makes them more productive for the organisation.
- Decreased levels of stress: A hybrid model enables employees to balance their work and life in a way that is best suited for them, this leads to less burnout and improved mental well-being.
- Higher productivity and increased efficiency: A hybrid model offers employees far more flexibility allowing them to work more efficiently and effectively.
- Increased collaboration and teamwork: One of the top concerns of remote work is employee collaboration, but having a strong wifi connection makes collaboration between the employees much easier. Physical presence within the office premises is not a requirement for collaboration to be effective.
In Summary
Because of the rigidity and inflexibility of 9-5 work model, more and more organisations are moving to a hybrid working model to increase employ satisfaction, save time and cost, and increase teamwork. Just remember, in this new environment, a strong People Management team is vital to ensure best practices and to constantly assess the effectiveness of the hybrid solution.
Oakwood can make sure you’re prepared for a hybrid work model with qualifications and consultation. Talk to us today to find out how we can help.
