The Hybrid Workplace & Workforce
In the post-pandemic future of work, many organisations have embraced a hybrid model of the workplace. Through flexible work arrangements and adoption of collaborative cloud-based software, more and more companies are considering a permanent mix of remote and on-site working, according to McKinsey & Company. Companies must now recognise that this phenomenon of the hybrid workforce is here to stay for years to come.
What is the Hybrid Workplace?
One of the most prominent features of the hybrid workforce is remote working, where workplaces are not constrained by one location. Employees now have the freedom to choose where they want to work from. This has opened opportunities for employers to tap on international talents who improve the quality of their workforce. Cloud-based software has also facilitated collaboration across any distance, resulting in improved efficiency.
The pandemic has also accelerated the transition to new ways of working and honed the focus on innovation across the region. For instance, an increasing trend in the hiring of skilled gig workers and freelancers has led to the growth of a diverse workforce. As a result, the hybrid workplace is now made up of a variety of roles – from permanent to temporary roles.
Who Is Affected By The Hybrid Workplace?
The potential for remote work in the hybrid workforce depends highly on the type of task and activity undertaken. Due to the nature of work, activities that have the highest potential for remote working include updating knowledge and interacting with computers. These activities carried out by highly skilled and highly educated workers are most commonly from the finance, professional services and information sectors, according to McKinsey Global Institute’s remote work analysis.
How To Benefit From The Hybrid Workplace?
According to the first annual Work Trend Index from Microsoft Corp., business leaders now need to dig deeper to think about shaping their culture to attract and retain talent, foster collaboration and innovation.
One of the ways to do so would be through understanding or redesigning their business operations. According to McKinsey, most organisations have changed their hiring process, with leading companies reimagining them completely. Besides expanding the geographical reach of hiring, companies can also rethink their candidate journeys to attract more talents and improve employer branding.
Transitioning to the hybrid workplace may also require companies to rewire company processes and redefine their workforce, creating a demand for different types of roles. Gone are the days where employers only hired full-timers, with freelancers and contract workers gaining prominence due to their flexible nature of work. Besides the type of roles, employers also have to redefine their expectations around employee availability. One way to do so would be to come up with policies that break away from the standard 9 to 5 hours, according to Microsoft. Alternatively, companies should relook at setting reasonable performance indicators.
To thrive in the hybrid workplace, it is essential for companies to start listening to their employees. Just like how rapidly the future of work has evolved, employee expectations have also been changing. Employees are now looking for collaboration, learning and career advancement opportunities, and have taken a key priority on their wellbeing. Hence, it is important for employers to exercise empathy and incorporate a social element to help employees feel that they are a valued part of an organisation.
Getting Hybrid Right With TG
With 30 years of human capital experience, we can help you shape your hybrid workforce in order to empower your employees and achieve business success. Learn more about the hybrid workplace and explore HR services with our expert consultants today!
