The Effects of the Now Essential Hybrid Work Model

Does the hybrid work model work for you? Whether you’ve already experienced some form of remote work or you’re going to, let’s discuss the ups and downs of the hybrid work model.

The past few years have seen an increase in the number of people working remotely around the world and in the UK. Before the first lockdown only 1.54 million people worked remotely, which works out to just 6% of the amount during the first lockdown. Looking at more recent hybrid work trends shows that this number won’t be getting lower any time soon, in fact most companies are shifting to some form of hybrid work.

The hybrid work model allows workers to split their time between office work and remote work, giving them more flexibility to choose their own work times and environment. 

Though this kind of work flexibility has a stigma surrounding it, most employers think that working from home will lead to distractions and a decrease in productivity. 

However this is not the case, employees find that they’re more productive and in 2020 two-thirds of employers reported an increase in productivity among their remote workers compared to their in-office workers. 

An increase in productivity is just one of the many advantages of hybrid work, benefits that are mutually advantageous for the employer and employee. 

Employees save time by remotely working. They no longer have to commute to work, which saves them hours of time each week. This free time can be used for themselves and families or used to get more work done, both of these options lead to an increase in productivity. With more free time workers find that their mental health and relationships improve.

Time isn't the only thing that's saved. On average workers are able to save £44.78 a week with remote working by not having to pay for any of the essential expenditures that come with office work such as for travelling to work or takeout for lunch. 

Companies benefit from this too, less money goes towards retail, office supplies and hiring among other things saving them thousands. 

Though the hybrid work model brings many benefits to the table, there are still problems that arise. Remote work can bring feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Having no office environment means that there are fewer opportunities to socialise face to face, or make sure that you’re heard by your boss. A lot of people find that face to face socialisation is better for them than calls and texts, notably extroverts feel this way.  

Using technology to communicate is useful but it can be frustrating and flawed. Coming to grips with how to use apps or social media isn’t an easy task for everyone.

Internet connections aren’t always reliable either, making it difficult or even impossible in some cases to get in touch with people. Missed messages can act as a catalyst for those feelings of isolation and loneliness. 

Visiting the office once a week or so can be beneficial to counter the feelings of isolation, which is why the hybrid work model has more merit than remote working alone. A combination of the two work spaces and the added freedom gives workers a sense of independence, it also demonstrates that employers trust their employees. 

This promotes a healthier work environment for everyone and contributes to work productivity. 

With the hybrid work model on the rise, it’s important to continue discussing and researching the differences between this model and the in office model and their effects to improve the functionality of both systems.