Hybrid working: is it still an advantage in 2023?

When the pandemic begun in 2020, majority of employees were forced out of the office and into their homes to work remotely. However with the return to normality in the last year, there are still many people and companies that now prefer a hybrid work schedule over full-time in the office. But with the world of work continuing to evolve post-COVID and the hybrid working model being here to stay, do the benefits outweigh the disadvantages?

What is hybrid working?
Hybrid working is a work arrangement that allows employees to work both remotely and in a traditional office setting, depending on their job responsibilities and personal preferences. In a hybrid work model, employees can choose to work from home or from another location outside of the office, for part of their workweek, while also coming into the office for in-person meetings or collaborative work as needed.

What are the advantages?

Increased flexibility: Hybrid working allows employees to have more control over their work schedules and to balance their work and personal lives more effectively. This can lead to increased job satisfaction and improved work-life balance.

Reduced commute time and costs: With hybrid working, employees can work from home or from a location closer to their home, which reduces the time and money spent on commuting.

Improved productivity: Hybrid working can provide a more conducive work environment for certain individuals, which can lead to increased productivity. For example, introverted individuals may find it easier to focus and concentrate on their work in a quiet, home environment.

What are the disadvantages?

Lack of social interaction: Hybrid working can lead to a lack of face-to-face interaction with colleagues, which can impact team cohesion and lead to feelings of isolation.

Difficulty in managing remote employees: Managing remote employees can be challenging, especially if they are not located in the same time zone or country. This can lead to communication barriers and difficulties in coordinating tasks and projects.

Increased reliance on technology: Hybrid working requires a strong reliance on technology, which can be problematic if there are technical issues or if employees are not familiar with the necessary software and tools. This can result in lost productivity and frustration for employees.