Is The Hybrid Workplace Dead?

The workplace is ever-evolving. From traditional nine-to-five jobs to remote work and even freelancing, the ways we work have changed dramatically in recent years. This has become even more pronounced because of the pandemic.

One of the more popular work arrangements that has been gaining traction is the hybrid workplace. It’s more nuanced than either regular work or working from anywhere. It’s a combination of the two. That allows employees to gain some autonomy while providing employers with a sense of structure.

But is this hybrid workplace here to stay?

What Is The Hybrid Workplace?

The hybrid workplace is a mix of office work and working from anywhere. It gives employees some flexibility regarding when and where they work, while allowing employers to maintain control over their processes. It also seems to be what most people prefer — according to recent data, almost 50% of people with the capacity to work from anywhere and in the office elect for a hybrid setup.

This type of workplace typically involves letting employees work from anywhere, whether it is part-time or full-time. It provides structure by mandating certain days or hours when they must be in the office.

Yamini Rangan, HubSpot’s Chief Executive Officer, says: “At HubSpot, we are all in on hybrid. Our employees and candidates want flexibility, and we truly believe people can do their best work from anywhere. I cannot say that I have figured this out, but I am learning and iterating every day.”

Is The Hybrid Workplace Here To Stay?

The jury is still out on whether the hybrid workplace is here to stay or not. On one hand, having employees work from anywhere offers employers a great deal of flexibility in how they manage their workforce. But on the other hand, some companies may feel that it’s better to have everyone in the office and are mandating that their employees return.

The hybrid workplace can pose difficulties. If you want to learn more about them, read our article, “10 Hybrid Workplace Challenges and How To Overcome Them.”

Ultimately, it’s up to individual companies to decide what works best for them. If they feel that having everyone back in the office is the better option, then they will likely choose to do so. But if they prefer more autonomy for their workforce, allowing employees to work from anywhere may be the better option.

Is The Hybrid Workplace Only A Temporary Solution?

It’s impossible to say what the future will bring. But the hybrid workplace, at least for now, appears to be a solution to the ever-changing work environment.

Many businesses are torn between wanting to provide their employees with greater autonomy and flexibility while also maintaining control over their processes. The hybrid workplace is a way for them to achieve both of these goals, at least in the short term.

To discuss the hybrid workplace further, let’s discuss the two work setups at its core:

Returning To The Office

Many employers are mandating that their employees return to the office to ensure structure and control. This setup is beneficial for companies because it allows them to maintain processes and have everyone on site.

However, it can be difficult to implement as some employees may not have access to transportation or other resources they need to make it to the office.

Paul Guett, a product strategist, has something to say about this: “Unpopular opinion: You should work from the office when you can. Now, this seems ironic given that I am starting my work day by a pool in Canggu, Bali, after enjoying a morning of surfing in 29°C warm water. In November. I love that my job allows me to work remotely, but I treat this freedom for what it is: a luxury, not a default.”

Advantages Of Returning To The Office

The traditional office setup has lasted for a long time and it’s still popular for good reason. Here are some of its most significant benefits:

Maintaining Structure Over Company Systems And Processes. Using an existing structure is easier than creating a new one — in fact, a recent report indicates that over 60% of C-suite executives didn’t have a plan ready for a shift to hybrid.
Increased Collaboration. With everyone in the same physical space, it’s easier to collaborate and build relationships with co-workers.
Reduced Distractions. By eliminating distractions from home or other locations, employees can focus on their work.
Easy Access To Resources. Having access to the office’s resources can make it easier for employees to complete their tasks.

Disadvantages Of Returning To The Office

Of course, there are some drawbacks to returning to the office. Here are a few:

Difficult For Employees Without Access To Transportation Or Other Resources. If employees can’t access transportation to reach the office, this can be challenging.
Can Lead To Excessive Hours. Having employees come into the office can lead to excessive hours as they may feel compelled to stay longer to complete their tasks.
Lack Of Autonomy. If you previously had a hybrid workplace, suddenly returning to the office may make employees feel like they have less autonomy.
Lack Of Flexibility. With everyone in the office, it can be difficult to offer employees flexible working arrangements.

But Molly Johnson-Jones, the CEO and co-founder of FLEXA Careers, asks: “80% of people say that flexibility is essential to them in their next company. But what is flexibility? And how is it evolving?”

It’s important for employers and employees alike to define this aspect first.

Working From Anywhere

The “working from anywhere” setup offers greater flexibility, as it means employees and employers do not have to adhere to a certain physical location. This can be beneficial for employees because they can choose to work where they feel the most productive.

Roxanne Bras Petraeus from the U.S. Army says: “I think we should acknowledge the benefits of remote work (I’m team sweatpants) while also building intentional ways of working that address remote work’s actual shortcomings. And unlike clunky, brute force surveillance tools, intentional ways of working build a culture of trust.”

Advantages Of Working From Anywhere

The option to work from anywhere has its own set of advantages, such as:

Increased Autonomy For Employees. By allowing employees to choose their environment, they can tailor the location and setup to what works best for them.
Decreased Costs For Employers. Companies can save money by not having to invest in office space or other resources.
Increased Flexibility. With employees working from their locations, it’s easier for employers to offer flexible working arrangements.
Increased Comfort And Productivity. Employees may be able to focus better and be more productive in a space that is comfortable for them.

Disadvantages Of Working From Anywhere

While the option of working from anywhere can have its benefits, there are some drawbacks to consider as well. Here are a few:

Loss Of Supervision. With employees not having a physical presence in the office, it can be difficult for employers to ensure that their employees are doing their jobs properly.
Potential Problems With Technology. If employees don’t have access to reliable technology or an internet connection, this can make it difficult for them to collaborate and complete tasks.
Loss Of Connection With Co-Workers. Employees may not have the same connection with their co-workers if they are not in the same physical space.
Increased Vulnerability To Cybersecurity Risks. When employees are working from home, they can be more vulnerable to cybersecurity threats, as they may not have access to the same security measures that an office provides.

The Future Of The Hybrid Workplace

With both options having their advantages and disadvantages, it’s hard to say whether the hybrid workplace is here to stay or if it’s dead. But the fact remains that many employees prefer it. You can learn more about this by reading our piece, “Hybrid Work: Why Do Employees Want It?”

While there are clear benefits for employers and employees in either scenario, ultimately, the decision lies with the employer. Some may decide to mandate their employees to return to the office, while others will let them have more autonomy in their working arrangements. It is, however, interesting to note that productivity growth increased by 0.2%, maintaining the average from 1947.

The hybrid workplace certainly provides an interesting dynamic between both sides of the arrangement. It will be interesting to see how this type of setup evolves in the future. Only time will tell if this is a trend that will last or if it will become a thing of the past.

Regardless of your company’s future decisions, Miranda Prinss-Visscher points out:

“Today’s thriving leaders are authentic, empathetic, transparent. Leaders who focus actively on healthy leadership. Let’s take better care of each other, also on this important space.”