Hybrid Work Reminders

June 2, 2021

By Mary E. Corrado, courtesy of SBAM Approved Partner ASE

By now I think we’ve all realized that hybrid work will likely be the new post-pandemic normal. Hybrid is a combination of working at the office and at home. It provides a nice balance for employees. ASE’s recent COVID-19 Return to Work Survey showed that over 34% of ASE member organizations intend to implement a permanent hybrid work model.

Microsoft recently published a guide to hybrid work, since many organizations look to them as a comparable benchmark.

I found the guide to be very helpful. Some of its highlights include:

Update your conference rooms: With many staff continuing remote via a hybrid work model, it will be important to update your conference rooms to allow for video conferencing.
Set up cloud technology to manage devices: Without having all staff in the office all the time, it will be important to be able to manage their devices via the cloud.
Bolster cybersecurity: While most employees work from home when remote, there are times they might be in a coffee shop or another remote location. Employees should test their home networks as well as phones if they will be accessing corporate tools from them. Security systems should be installed to avoid any data breaches when accessing external networks. If you don’t have an internal IT person who manages this, ASE has an upcoming virtual course – Cybersecurity Basics on August 3^rd. Learn more here.
Expand your hiring region: Take advantage of the opportunity to expand your talent pool to locations outside of your immediate geographic area. Remote staff can work from anywhere!
Digitize the sales process: While most salespeople are eager to get back out into the real world, much of sales will remain digital since organizations may now have staff all over the country or state. Be sure to equip your sales team with the tools they need to do online demos, etc.
Ask employees to make time for breaks: As we’ve learned throughout this time of working fully remote, video meetings can be exhausting. Encourage your employees to take breaks throughout the day – especially after a video meeting.
Make well-being a priority: Wellness has taken on a new level of importance over the past year. Employees who make well-being a priority are healthier and more productive. I encourage you to visit ASE’s new Workplace Wellness Resources page for on-demand webinars and other wellness resources. Your EAP or health insurance provider are likely other good resources.