Pros and Cons to a Hybrid Office Model
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This article was updated on 7/31/23.
Many pros and cons of the hybrid office model exist, and it's important to consider all factors when deciding the future of your office space. According to data collected by passport-photo.online, 72% of staffers prefer a hybrid office schedule. And, for most companies, a hybrid office space will be largely beneficial.
However, it's important to consider how the concerns regarding a hybrid office model will be navigated before jumping in.
What Is a Hybrid Office Model?
A hybrid office can mean different things. At its core, a hybrid office model allows remote workers to connect with workers who are physically present in the office space. Some hybrid office models have all employees work a few days in the office space and a few days remotely. Another design is that some employees are always remote, and some are always in the office.
The Pros of Hybrid Offices
Let's take a look at a few specific benefits of integrating a hybrid office model into your employees' schedules.
#1 – Less Overhead, Better Morale
One benefit of not having everyone in the office is that it makes it possible to have a smaller office space. If you're located in a bustling metropolis with traditionally more expensive rents, like New York City or Charlotte, this could be a major financial benefit.
A study by Robert Half shows that 49% of employees prefer a model where they split time between working remote and working in-person. This is compared to 26% who prefer fully remote and 25% who wish to go back to an entirely in-person schedule.
The beauty of a hybrid office model is that it can accommodate all of these preferences. Some employees work fully remotely, some come into the office part-time, and others may come in full-time.
According to the same study by Half, one-third of professionals currently working at home do not wish to return to the office full-time, to the extent that they would look for another job if required to do so. Allowing hybrid and remote work, therefore, not only increases employee morale but also builds employee retention.
#2 – Health and Safety Benefits
Having fewer people in the office means increased space for social distancing for in-person employees. Amidst the aftershock of the recent COVID-19 pandemic, more attention has been brought to the health and safety of working from home.
A hybrid office model makes it easier for employees to work from home, and integrating remote work allows employees who may not be feeling well to still be productive, mitigating the spread of viruses and leading to a healthier staff.
#3 – Greater Hiring Potential
Another advantage to having some fully remote employees is that it greatly expands your potential talent pool. In a traditional employment model, companies are limited to hiring people within commuting distance of their office space.
A hybrid office model allows you to access a broader pool of prospective employees. You may still wish to limit geography by time zone or country, but a broader talent pool will still be available to you.
#4 – Better Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance is obviously important. Fewer hours spent commuting allows employees to spend more time with their loved ones, take shorter breaks, and easily transition out of their work schedules. However, a hybrid office model also gives workers who come in part-time a chance to connect with their team members in person.
Companies receive many benefits from their employees enjoying increased work-life balance, including:
- Improved productivity;
- Lowered absenteeism;
- Reduced turnover; and
- Increased employee morale.
These are just a few among many.
Cons to a Hybrid Office Model
Now, let's take a look at some of the disadvantages of a hybrid office model.
#1 – Employee Imbalance
One concern when managing a hybrid office model is that if some professionals work remotely and some hybrid or in-person, there may be a noticeable staffing imbalance.
Will pay raises and promotions be given fairly? Or will hybrid and in-office workers be at an advantage over remote workers? How will office politics play out?
#2 – Employee Burnout
Will remote workers feel the need to be constantly “on?" Will they feel the need to work longer hours than their in-office counterparts? If so, this could lead to unnecessary burnout and stress.
While the risk of burnout is not bad enough to negate the benefits of a hybrid office model or of working remotely for most people, you should ensure that schedule expectations are clearly communicated to those working remotely.
#3 – Several Sets of Equipment
If an employee is working some of the time at home and some of the time in the office, how much equipment will need to be duplicated? It's easy to bring a laptop back and forth, but what about a second monitor or an ergonomic keyboard?
#4 – Company Culture
Company culture can be harder to maintain and nourish when some of your employees are fully remote. Having a plan for how you'll handle this potential obstacle is imperative.
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There are many benefits to a hybrid office model. However, the disadvantages must be considered carefully before the model is implemented. Ultimately, the potential drawbacks can be negated with thoughtful and intentional work.
Looking for the perfect office space for rent? You can list and browse office space for free right here on MyEListing.com
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