We may slowly return to the office. We will no longer work there full-time. Because working from home, in your pyjamas, is also quite lovely. Occasionally. Working from home has its advantages. Need a refresher? Here, you read what hybrid working looked like in 2020 and where we are now. We are confident about it. Hybrid working is the future.
Whoa, whoa, wait a minute. We should not be too hasty now. Many companies are still insufficiently prepared for hybrid working. Because what is the perfect mix when it comes to hybrid working? You might be itching to get back to the office. Your colleague thinks working from home completely is a much better idea. And the boss? In the middle of it. That's why we want to introduce you to the hybrid work policy!
The hybrid work policy
What is a hybrid work policy? It’s simple. A hybrid work policy works like a contract. It's for everyone within the company. But also for departments and within different teams. It sounds very formal, but it defines where, when and how you and your colleagues work in a hybrid work environment.
And why is it so important? That too is quite simple. The boundaries between work and private life have been blurred. With a hybrid working policy, everyone knows what is expected of them. And no one gets any unexpected surprises. It gives you and your colleagues something to hold on to and some structure.
What are the trends?
We are increasingly hearing that the modern workplace is coming closer. But the workplace of the future has already found its way. More and more companies are switching to remote working. And with that, they are looking for a strategy for hybrid working. For them, however, it’s crucial to choose the right approach. Hybrid is much more difficult to 'manage' than completely remote or entirely face-to-face. But no worries! We are happy to lend you a hand!
More flexibility
Even more? Yes, even more! The emphasis is no longer on individual cubicles and performance. Or fixed structures and standard working hours. Remote working is the norm. Yet 48% of companies in Europe have not yet developed a programme for the future of work. As a result, the increasing demands and expectations for flexibility at the workplace are not being met. It’s therefore high time that more flexibility becomes part of the hybrid working policy! Because it makes us much happier and more productive!
Redesigning the office
The office is no longer the office. And it probably never will be again. Various studies have shown that employees want to continue working at home. Some partially, others full-time. But all those workplaces? They are no longer needed. The ideal workplace must have the opportunity to meet each other. To work together. But it must also offer the choice to work in silence. Creativity and flexibility at the workplace are the things we want.
Investing in the right equipment
In the beginning, we struggled with Microsoft Teams, Zoom, you name it. Fortunately, we managed to find our way. But is it enough? No, it's not. Digitalisation of the workplace should have a high priority when (re)designing a workplace. Invest in the right tools and technologies. This way, you and your colleagues can communicate from any device. But also from any location and at any time.
More focus on the social aspect
Here, too, we see things changing. All too often, people at the office forget to think about their colleagues that work from home. But even on the work floor, we do not always pay attention. We may be more productive. But due to the amount of working at home, a lot of employees feel anxious. Companies that create opportunities for employees to relax outside of work have an advantage.
Hybrid work is the future
We are going to work smarter. Digitalisation is becoming increasingly important. Instead of more work in less time, we will create more value with less work. We will find the right balance between work and private life. We will be investing in tools and technologies. Paying more attention to the social aspect. And focus more on flexibility. Because who knows what the future holds? 👀