In today's world, where digital transformation is becoming increasingly important, the question arises as to how companies can adapt their work processes to work more flexibly and efficiently. One possibility is to introduce a hybrid work model that combines both home office and office presence. So how can a hybrid work model be introduced?
Key facts
- The hybrid working model offers numerous advantages for employees and companies.
- These include more flexibility, an improved work-life balance and the opportunity to save on office costs.
- When introducing a hybrid working model, it is helpful to start with a pilot phase with a small part of the company. The model can then be rolled out across the board.
- Workplace booking software helps with the organization and management of office space.
What does the hybrid working model include?
Hybrid working is a work model that combines both in-office and work-from-home hours. It allows employees to be flexible with their work hours and locations to better balance their personal and work commitments.
Hybrid working is a type of flexible work model that has gained popularity in recent years, especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. By allowing employees to work from home, companies have been able to reduce their operating costs while empowering their employees to do their jobs more efficiently.
Benefits for companies
- Cost savings through smaller office space Increased productivity through individual working hours
- Expansion of the talent pool through the possibility of working remotely
- Benefits for employees More flexibility and work-life balance
- Possibility to work from home and attract more talents
Benefits for employees
- More flexibility and work-life balance
- Opportunity to work from home
- Reduction in time and costs for commuting
Before the introduction: start the pilot phase
Before the hybrid working model is introduced across the board, it is always advisable to start a small pilot phase. This can affect either a small part of the company, a department or a building or campus. It is important that the results can be measured and only a specific group in the company is affected. The willingness of this test group and its managers is important. A pilot phase can then be started over several weeks or months. The sensitivity to the new hybrid working model can be tested using results on employee satisfaction, desk sharing ratios or through workshops. This also increases acceptance among other departments and such a project can be rolled out across the board.
Training and workshops are also important in this test phase - both for employees and managers. This is because the transformation is a new experience for everyone involved, especially when it comes to collaboration. This makes it all the easier for future participants. They can share their specific experiences and learn from each other.
How can a hybrid working model then be introduced across the board?
Introducing a hybrid working model requires thorough planning and implementation to ensure that both companies and employees can reap the benefits. Here are some steps that companies should consider when implementing a hybrid working model:
Clear rules and guidelines
It is important that both companies and employees know what rules and policies apply to the hybrid working model. This can include rules for being in the office, expectations for availability for meetings and communication, and rules for security and data protection.
Suitable technology
To successfully implement a hybrid working model, companies need to ensure that the necessary technology is in place to facilitate communication and collaboration within the team. This can include providing laptops, video conferencing tools, cloud-based project management tools and secure virtual networks. But desk sharing software can also be useful.
Training & Support
To ensure employees are able to work from home successfully, they need the necessary training and support. This may include training in technology, time management and communication, as well as the ability to access resources and support when they need it.
Culture of trust
A culture of trust is crucial for the success of the hybrid work model. Companies and leaders need to trust employees to do their work even when they are not in the office. This requires a shift in mindset and building trust through clear communication and transparency. These should be cornerstones of the hybrid company culture.
Test and adaptation phase
A hybrid working model cannot be introduced overnight. Companies should plan a testing and adjustment phase to ensure the model works for everyone involved. This may include collecting feedback from employees and adjusting policies and guidelines.
Continuous review and improvement
Once introduced, the hybrid working model should be continuously reviewed and improved. Companies should ensure that the model still meets the needs of the business and employees and that it continues to deliver the desired results.
Introduce the hybrid working model quickly and easily with Seatti
In order to successfully introduce a hybrid working model, the right technical setup is essential. Workplace booking software such as Seatti forms the foundation for the organization and management of hybrid offices.
The seamless integration of Seatti into Microsoft 365 means that existing user groups and rights can be adopted. This means our software fits quickly and easily into your existing system landscape. And the social component is not neglected either: Our integrated location overview allows employees to see who is coming to the office. And our integrated data analysis shows whether the model works for your company. Using anonymized booking data, you can see the utilization of your office space and make data-driven decisions regarding the office space required. This way you can see whether hybrid working really works.
