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Remote, Hybrid or On-site
By Bob Gershberg, CEO/Managing Partner, Wray Executive Search
Did the pandemic change the work world forever? In April of 2020 more than half the world was in lockdown. The workforce became remote by need. Accommodating remote work was essential. As the lockdowns began to ease, the debates ensued. Which is more efficient, remote, hybrid or in-office? And now two plus years later, the discussion has changed. Offering remote or hybrid options has become an effective strategy for attracting and retaining talent. Not all agree. In a recent memo, Tesla CEO, Elon Musk said employees must report to their assigned offices at least 40 hours per week stating, "Remote work is no longer acceptable."
In a survey conducted by Accenture, it was identified that 63% of high-revenue companies embrace the concept of hybrid workforce models. Most enterprises are keen on streamlining processes using technology that enables more efficient on-site work as well as remote work.
Ultimately digital transformation is driving industries to adopt new ways of working and upskilling their current workforce to meet future demands. Many businesses still rely on on-site workforces which may continue to change with the introduction of new equipment, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.
Working at a location, a worksite or an office can provide a unified experience for the entire workforce. This can foster a physical sense of awareness, discipline, and unity. Most of us are familiar with this type of work as the set standard.
Pros
Less distractions from family affairs
More communication and interaction with colleagues
Cohesive organizational culture which fosters a sense of purpose
Access to company assets, facilities, and equipment
Common, structured routine that enables discipline and productivity
Cons
Stressful, costly and lengthy commute times
Increased overheads for the organization
Higher energy costs for the organization and individual
Frequent distractions from colleagues and coworkers
An exclusive business ecosystem that some may find unfavorable
Remote work is gaining prominence in numerous industries across various business verticals.
Pros
Higher levels of productivity
Freedom to work anywhere and at anytime
Save time and costs on commute
More family time and personal time
Less distractions from coworkers
Virtual collaboration
Cons
Social isolation and related problems
Lack of interaction with the outside world
Often result in communication gaps between teams
Hybrid work
Many industries are determined to continue remote work post the pandemic. However, operations reliant on on-site workers will have to find a new and inventive workplace solution. That’s why hybrid workplaces can revolutionize the future of work.
Pros:
Employees have the freedom of remote work
During on-site workdays, employees can get to know their coworkers better
Companies can curb overhead costs by deploying hybrid workplace solutions
Cons:
Division between on-site and remote workers in the same organization
Collaboration between two teams may be negatively impacted
Managers and leaders may prefer teams they work with often, rather than a cohesive work culture.
In a survey by Stanford, 55% of workers prefer to spend some time at office and some time at home during work. 25% preferred working from home permanently, while only 20% said they want to work on-site full-time.
Hybrid work models vary from company to company. In many cases, employees are offered flexible work hours and remote work opportunities while a percentage of the workforce works on-site. This system is alternated depending on the business requirements.
For businesses to make better decisions, it is important to understand how various types of workplace solutions can impact their operational efficiency, and organization’s culture. Digital workplace solutions that are tailored to the unique demands of enterprises can map the growth and opportunity for companies of all sizes. The future of work is tech-driven workflow and flexible workplace policies, widely sought after by conglomerates and small businesses alike.
All the best,
Bob Gershberg |CEO|Managing Partner|
(888) 875-9993 ext 102
Finding tomorrow’s leaders today!