The Microsoft Work Trend Index, an annual evaluation conducted by Microsoft annually in Spring, has revealed that businesses that do not offer remote working options – either exclusively or in a hybrid form – may find themselves at risk of losing the best talent available. The Index’s findings indicated that 73% of employees do not wish to return to full-time, on-site work, and 40% are actively considering a change of career.
A recent survey has found that organisations must take the necessary steps to properly plan for a hybrid workplace, as attempting to do so without preparation is not feasible or sustainable. In order to successfully transition to a hybrid workplace, companies should consider the following factors:
Establish the company’s long-term goals for employment
Having a comprehensive understanding of one’s desired destination is the initial step in developing a hybridization strategy. Organisations must recognise the most important changes, challenges, and new objectives for their hybrid workforce. To that end, companies should evaluate the following queries: To what degree, if any, does each job require an in-person presence? How much do you anticipate relying on contingent labour and free-lancers? What influence does a hybridised labour force have on the company’s business formation?
Determine infrastructure and building requirements
Once an organisation has decided to pursue a strategy incorporating both remote and on-site working, they must determine the number of personnel who will be operating off-site, as well as the technological infrastructure required to support them in their endeavours. It is essential to ensure that all employees have the necessary hardware and software to successfully carry out their tasks, and that the IT department is adequately prepared to handle any issues that might arise.
Organisations need to identify which software and hardware solutions will enable their personnel to complete their duties proficiently, regardless of their location. It is important to embrace digital communication as a means to not only focus on work, but also to ensure that employees have access to the resources they need to be successful.
Locate culturally appropriate solutions to adapt to the digital workplace
The corporate culture that used to be a staple of office environments is no longer present in hybrid settings. Companies will need to strive to incorporate their culture and values into their virtual operations throughout the entire talent lifecycle. This includes customising onboarding processes, initiating team-building activities, and developing leadership programmes that are suitable for a virtual environment.
Organisations that strive for success in a hybrid workplace must invest in solutions that facilitate the digital transformation of processes and procedures. Moreover, it is essential to have capable leaders who can promote effective virtual interactions and motivate employees to excel. Most importantly, a successful hybrid workplace should provide a positive culture to all staff members, no matter which location they are working from.
Learn more about establishing a hybrid workforce.
