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The Microsoft Work Trend Index, an annual report published by Microsoft each spring, concluded companies that don’t offer remote work—be it fully remote or hybrid options—risk losing the best human resources. The index reported that 73 percent of employees don’t want to return to full-time, in-office work. Further, 40 percent of the workforce is considering a job switch.
To create a hybrid workplace, according to a different report, companies must plan carefully. Going hybrid by default is impracticable and unsustainable, the report said. To do so effectively, companies should consider the following:
Determine the company’s vision for the future of work
The first step of going hybrid: clarity of vision. Companies need to define the main changes, challenges, and a re-imagined vision for their hybrid workforce. Employers need to debate the following questions: How will teams collaborate if they don’t work from the same location? Can each job be carried out remotely, on-site, or a mix of both? Will gig workers and freelancers be a part of the workforce? Will a hybrid workforce help or hinder the operating model?
Identify real estate needs and technology requirements
After determining their hybrid vision, companies need to decide how much of their workforce will work remotely and the technology hardware, software, and collaboration required to support them.
Employers must identify which tools and applications can help workers perform their jobs well from anywhere. Such applications must overcome an office-centric culture through easy digital communication.
Find ways of translating culture to the virtual workplace
In hybrid workplaces, culture no longer lives in offices. Companies will need to incorporate their culture and values in virtual operations at all stages of the talent lifecycle. This means transforming onboarding processes, team-building activities, and leadership development programs to suit the virtual world.
Successful hybrid workplaces invest in business tools that help digitize as many procedures and processes as possible and engage leaders capable of building virtual relationships and inspiring great work. Above all, they offer employees a great culture, wherever they log in from.
Read more about building a hybrid workforce.
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