The hybrid work model – splitting time between home and office – has become a mainstay for many organizations since the global pandemic. According to ADP research, hybrid work is thriving, with employees who split their time between home and office 1.7 times more likely to be engaged than on-site staff and 1.9 times more engaged than fully remote employees. However, this evolving approach has its challenges.
Hybrid work offers flexibility that empowers employees to excel in their roles. Research shows that 87% of employees believe they would be more productive if allowed to work their preferred number of days from home. Hybrid workers also report reduced stress, with 36% of employees on hybrid schedules describing themselves as thriving, compared to just 26% of on-site staff.
Beyond engagement and productivity, hybrid work supports better work-life balance. Employees value the autonomy that hybrid models provide, motivating them to perform at their best. One HR specialist described hybrid work as “necessary for employee motivation,” while a payroll analyst called it a “win-win” for balancing work and personal life.
Despite its benefits, hybrid work presents hurdles. Employees often struggle to establish consistent routines, and collaboration can suffer when team members work different hours or days. As one payroll manager noted, while employees enjoy flexible schedules, varying work hours can make it harder to connect.
One significant hurdle in hybrid work involves employees who are recent graduates who are new to corporate environments and new employees to your organization. For these individuals, a fully remote schedule can negatively impact and hinder their ability to establish roots within the company. Without in-person interaction, they may struggle to build connections, understand workplace culture, or develop a sense of belonging. A hybrid model helps bridge this culture gap by providing structured opportunities for face-to-face mentorship, collaboration, and engagement while still offering the flexibility of remote work. This balance fosters personal and professional growth, enabling new graduates to acclimate more effectively and thrive in their roles.
Organizations embracing hybrid work must focus on trust and innovation. Advanced tools like AI-enabled video conferencing and project management platforms can enhance productivity and collaboration. At the same time, organizations should measure success by output rather than location, trusting employees to deliver results wherever they work.
For hybrid work to succeed, companies must provide employees with the right tools, clear policies, and defined expectations.
By Linda Olejniczak, courtesy of SBAM-approved partner, ASE.
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