Hybrid Working: The Model Revolutionizing the Business World
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the world of work has changed significantly. The pandemic has forced organizations to adapt and find new ways of working. One of the concepts that has gained immense popularity is "Hybrid Working," which involves alternating between work in the office and work from home. Even today, many organizations continue to adhere to this work model, and new-generation employees are increasingly seeking work-from-home jobs. Many have discovered that the combination of working from home and going to the office better enhances their work-life balance compared to going to the office every day, while also saving costs in various areas.
Therefore, the question arises: Is hybrid work model the standard for modern work? And why should organizations adapt to the new normal by changing their work models? Let's
What is Hybrid Working?
Hybrid working is a work model that allows employees to alternate between work in the office and work from home (or other locations) as appropriate. This concept combines the advantages of working in the office and remote work, focusing on flexibility and productivity.
In a hybrid working setup, employees may have a predetermined schedule specifying office days and work-from-home days or have the freedom to choose their work locations based on the needs of their tasks and personal preferences. This depends on the organization's policies and the nature of each position.
The Benefits of Hybrid Working That Appeal to New-generation Employees
Improved time and personal life management
The hybrid work model enables employees to effectively balance their work and personal lives. The freedom to choose where to work helps reduce stress from commuting and increases time for family or hobbies, leading to an overall improvement in quality of life and higher job satisfaction.
Cost savings
Work from home on certain days allows employees to save significantly on expenses, especially commuting and food costs, which can be high for those working in large cities. Additionally, it reduces expenses related to dressing for office work.
Increased efficiency and creativity
Hybrid working provides employees with the opportunity to select work environments that suit them and the nature of their tasks each day, enabling better focus on their work and stimulating creativity and innovation.
Reduced fatigue from commuting
For employees who live far from the office, reducing the number of days spent commuting significantly alleviates fatigue and stress from traffic congestion, allowing them to have more energy and motivation for their work.
Reasons Why Organizations Should Adopt Hybrid Working
To attract and retain talented personnel
Companies are currently competing to attract highly skilled personnel. Offering a hybrid work model serves as a key selling point for organizations, especially among new-generation workers who prioritize flexibility. Furthermore, it helps organizations retain talented employees longer since they experience higher job satisfaction.
To promote a modern organizational image
Implementing hybrid working demonstrates that an organization is modern, understands employee needs, and values work-life balance, which enhances its public image and attracts quality clients and employees.
To improve efficiency and reduce costs
Hybrid working enables organizations to lower expenses related to space and utilities, as it is not necessary to have workspace for every employee simultaneously. It also enhances overall work efficiency, as employees are more satisfied and motivated.
To prepare for change
The work environment is rapidly changing. Adopting hybrid working allows organizations to remain flexible and ready to handle unforeseen situations, such as pandemics or natural disasters that may impact office work.
To expand recruitment opportunities
Hybrid working opens opportunities for organizations to hire talented employees from around the world, not limited to those in close proximity to the office, leading to a broader and higher-quality recruitment pool.
Future Trends of Hybrid Working
According to surveys and predictions from experts, there is a clear trend that work-from-home jobs will become an increasingly prevalent work model in the future, supported by the following factors:
Hybrid workplace is gaining acceptance from leading organizations
Major companies in the technology sector, such as Microsoft, Google, and Salesforce, have officially announced permanent hybrid working policies. This trend is likely to encourage other organizations to consider adopting this model as well.
Becoming a basic requirement for new-generation workers
Millennials and Gen Z, who will become the primary workforce in the future, place great importance on flexibility and work-life balance. As a result, hybrid work is the model that best meets their needs.
Changes in urban structure
Hybrid working may lead to a more dispersed distribution of housing and workplaces, reducing congestion in large cities and stimulating the economy in suburban areas or smaller towns.
Increased emphasis on health and well-being
After the COVID-19 pandemic, people are placing greater importance on health and well-being. Hybrid working addresses this need by reducing the risk of disease transmission and enhancing employees' quality of life.
In summary, the hybrid work model is likely to become a standard for modern work. Despite some challenges, the benefits in terms of flexibility, productivity, and employee quality of life make this work model increasingly desirable. However, organizations must remember to plan carefully, invest in appropriate technology, and foster a corporate culture that supports flexible working to prepare for the transition into a new era of work that may change irreversibly.