The Pros and Cons of a Hybrid Work Schedule

The future of what the traditional office will look like is changing. As more offices continue to open back up, the workday will look different. More and more companies are now opting for a hybrid version of what once was the norm. The reasoning behind the idea of a hybrid work schedule is a respectful collaboration between employer and employee while also keeping in mind what is best for the client. It is a flexible work environment where some employees may come back to full-time work in the office while others may come in a designated number of days or as needed.

Some offices are redesigning their workspace to get rid of desks and individual offices. The plan is to replace individual offices and desks with a larger table for all to share. A recent report by Xerox found that more than 50% of businesses worldwide have plans to change their work-from-home (WFH) policies. 

Productivity and Performance

There is research to show that allowing employees to “pick and choose” their work hours increases efficiency, or at least keeps the employee’s productivity constant. The theory is that the employee can feel happier, better rested, less stressed and more inclined to work from an environment where they have a level of comfort and control. From having a favorite pet nearby to wearing less restrictive clothing, it’s a mood enhancer that seems to make a positive impact.

One potential downside of continuing to work from home is you miss the camaraderie and interaction among your peers. There is often a plus to immediate feedback and socialization is an important part of people’s workday. Many people are longing for human connection after a long year of isolation.  

Versatile and Creative Workspace

As employees come back to the office, the interior of their workspace may be quickly transforming. You can expect to see less of a traditional office footprint. With less private offices and more couches, lounge-like seating and community tables for people to create and collaborate. Some employers plan to offer quiet rooms for client phone calls and “play areas” where employees can relax throughout the day. Power outlets will be plentiful and whiteboards (which are still useful) will be joined with conference screens to link in remote employees.

Keeping all employees engaged at the same level will be a challenge. This will require employers to put in special thought as to how to include remote workers in activities with the same enthusiasm and inclusivity level as their office peers. The transformation from a traditional work schedule to a hybrid work schedule will be fluid as employees and employers continue to fine-tune and collaborate on what works best for the company, the staff and ultimately the client. Business must go on and if a client is affected adversely, the bottom line matters when it comes to making final decisions.

Feeling of Control

It’s an empowering feeling to know you are valued as an employee. And that your employer is doing what they can to keep you happy post-pandemic. Avoid the daily grind of weekly traffic jams, alarm clocks and lunch on the run. Employees spend less money on gas, transportation expenses, eating out and dry cleaning.

Some employers have even furnished their hybrid employees with items that will maximize their productivity and personal well-being. Some are supplying smartwatches that count steps and help to keep track of fitness goals. Similarly, others are offering laptops that can go where they go during the day. Some offices with the hybrid work schedule model are offering lunch to their employees who are working from the office as a perk (along with a gym membership to the facility of their choice). 

Customers like to see a smiling face. A large component of a successful business is building relationships with clients. Losing the human touch is a real issue. It should be at the forefront as employers continue to consider what works best for the office team.

For more information check out The Protocol School of Texas. You may also like How to Make the Transition Back to the Office After Working Remote. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.