Hybrid work: What does that actually mean?
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Hybrid working is a flexible working model in which home office and office presence alternate on a daily or weekly basis. According to a recent study (e.g. by Gallup or PwC), over 70% of companies are already using such hybrid models or are in the test phase. The reason is obvious: the combination of remote and on-site work increases the work-life balance and flexibility of employees – and therefore often also their satisfaction and productivity. But for hybrid working to really be a success, teams need to find new ways to work together, share information and maintain a sense of cohesion.
The biggest challenges in the hybrid model
- Collaboration
Spontaneous agreements that used to take place in the coffee kitchen or at the desk, are no longer necessary or are more difficult to coordinate. - Information flow
When team members work in different locations, there is quickly the danger of knowledge silos. Important information gets “stuck” in chats or e-mails and does not reach everyone. - Team spirit & trust
Less direct contact can loosen the sense of togetherness. A lack of chance encounters often creates a distance, which can have a negative effect on togetherness. - Structure & Organization
Unclear home office rules (e.g. availability times) lead to misunderstandings. In addition , traditional communication channels (e.g. flood of emails) can quickly become confusing.
Solutions & best practices
Creatingtransparent processes
- Set team guidelines: Define availability times, meeting rules and common goals. This way, everyone knows who is available when and which tools are used for what.
- Weekly check-ins: A short video call is often enough to share updates and create a sense of community.
Usingdigital communication tools
- Centralized platform (e.g. Staffice): A tool for chat, file management and announcements prevents information from being lost.
- Push notifications: This keeps everyone up to date with important news in real time – no matter, whether they are in the office or at home.
Clear roles and responsibilities
- Project tickets & task lists : Create tasks and assign clear responsibilities. This ensures transparency and avoids overloading individuals.
- Task management: Simple visualizations (Kanban, to-do lists) help to keep an eye on priorities and progress.
Obtainregular feedback
- Short digital surveys: Measure the mood in the team by switching on quick polls or mood barometers in Staffice, for example. quick polls or mood barometers in Staffice.
- Praise & criticism in real time: An open channel for praise, ideas or suggestions for improvement helps, recognizeproblems at an early stage.
Team building despite distance
- Virtual coffee breaks : arrange regular informal meetings. You can also chat privately – just like in the office kitchen.
- Online team activities: Whether it’s a quiz, cooking together or virtual escape games – the main thing is that it’ s fun and brings the team together.
Summary: Your profit as a company
By introducing a structured and transparent hybrid model, you benefit from:
- Greater satisfaction among employees, who enjoy more flexibility
- Increased productivity as clear rules and tools facilitate exchange
- An attractive employer brand: flexible working arrangements are a plus in the ” war for talent”
The result
A motivated team, that works closely together despite physical separation – and achieves your corporate goals more successfully.
