These days, finding and keeping employees is tough. The last few years presented a slew of new hiring challenges, one of which was “The Great Resignation.” A key challenge driving this shift was the employer-demand for more flexibility in work schedules and environment. That’s where a hybrid workplace model can help support your needs.
According to Ivanti’s 2022 Digital Employee Experience Report, only 13% of employees enjoy working exclusively in the office. That means 87% of employees prefer alternative working options such as flexible or fully remote opportunities. Given this, many companies are expanding employee benefits, increasing salaries, and offering flexible work opportunities. This means the competition for top talent is more fierce than ever. If you’re still trying to attract and keep employees using the same old methods, it might be time to reevaluate your workplace structure.
Let’s dig into how transitioning to a hybrid workplace model can help you find and keep the right employees.
What is a hybrid workplace model?
A hybrid workplace model blends working in an office setting with working remotely. This model is typically used to allow more flexibility and accessibility to new and existing employees while also supporting efficient, engaged, and stable company cultures. While this model isn’t ideal for every industry, you can implement it as a solution for companies where employees do most of their work via computers.
How a hybrid workplace model appeals to employees
Hybrid workplace models give employees a more appealing level of freedom since they can choose to work in the office, from their home, or even a co-working space. A few of the other reasons an employee might seek a hybrid job includes:
- Having flexible working hours to care for family or enjoy more personal interests
- Financial savings from not having to commute to work
- Gaining more space for mental health
But, the benefits of a hybrid workplace model also exist for employers. This includes:
- Reduced operating costs
- Increased employee loyalty
- Higher transparency into workloads
One of the greatest benefits for you as an employer is that you can expand your talent pool outside of people that can come to the office. By expanding your pool with a hybrid workplace model, you’ll have a greater likelihood to find the ideal employees across a larger radius.
Make your hybrid workplace environment successful
For your business to successfully implement a hybrid workplace model, there are a few things to consider to ensure it’s effective for your specific business needs and appealing to employees. Here are a few things to consider:
1. Create new policies
A hybrid workplace policy should set the expectations for employees so they know who is able to work hybrid, hybrid working etiquette, and any other policies to make hybrid working effective.
2. Support relationships in and out of the office
Virtual happy hours and lunches are a great way to keep your team connected, even when you might be physically far away from each other.
3. Provide ongoing technical training
Since hybrid working requires employees to use technology, it’s important to provide continuous training so that all employees feel comfortable and up-to-date on any technology that is being used. Don’t forget to educate your employees on cybersecurity. When your team is not in the office, be sure they’re using secure network connections and practicing cyber safety by using antivirus software.
4. Communicate with your employees
As you begin creating and implementing hybrid processes, be sure to ask your employees for feedback every step of the way. This will help you understand what’s working and what might need to be changed in order to better fit your business. You can set up an anonymous feedback form, or set up one-on-one meetings with your employees to learn about what they think.
Start transitioning to a hybrid workplace model
If you’re ready to make a hybrid workplace business plan to combat staffing woes, RISBDC business counselors are a free, confidential resource, available to help small businesses like yours. Register with us to schedule an appointment.
