Many say that hybrid workspaces are the key to allowing companies to keep up with the changing world, especially during the pandemic.
Companies have also started to look into what hybrid setup works for them and find ways to deal with the downsides of hybrid work. Others are still pushing back because they believe it is not for them and their employees. A few are still watching to see if hybrid workspaces can make a difference, as some industries cannot fully embrace this work setup.
However, while the movement for hybrid workspaces continues to grow, employees are divided over their benefits and impacts. Some say it is the best work setup to gain a work-life balance, and others say it is not as ideal as people think it is because having a remote element in work is not for everyone. A few are still open to see what else will change in the hybrid workspace setup.
Considering these stances, how would it be fair in your workplace? Here are the arguments you may hear from your employees regarding a hybrid setup for work:
Pros
Better Productivity
Some employees would find a hybrid setup ideal because they will be able to work efficiently outside the workplace and produce high-quality work. These employees find it hard to work in a busy workplace, like introverts and those who prefer to work on their own. Give these employees the resources they need for the project, and they will be able to do it easily in their chosen work environment.
Reduced Costs
It can also be cheaper to work in a hybrid workspace, especially for those who live far away from the office. They don’t have to worry about paying transportation fees every day, as well as eating out in expensive restaurants. They can cook their meal at home and just pay a little extra for their internet and electricity to work efficiently at home. Even these costs can be kept to a minimum, by shopping around and looking for the best xfinity internet plans and electricity providers in the area, to get the best deals and plans for their needs.
Flexible Collaboration
Employees who are very shy in reaching out to colleagues directly in the office would argue that they will collaborate and brainstorm well in a hybrid setup. While working at home, they can contribute actively through online whiteboards, company social media sites and video calls. Some argue that they can also keep up their social interactions through these online tools is lost in a hybrid setup.
Work-life Balance
Finally, employees in favour of a hybrid workspace would argue that they will achieve a work-life balance with this setup. They will be as flexible as they can with work, from their work setup to tackling the job at hand.
Cons
Employees May Find It Hard To Keep Up With Two Workspaces
Meanwhile, some will argue that not everyone will keep up with having two workspaces. Not everyone can create the ideal home setup for work and access all the resources they need to do their work. Older employees may also find it challenging to collaborate well online, especially those not proficient with computers and the internet.
It Can Be Hard To Identify True Output Quality
Others can also argue that while employees can become productive at home, employers can’t see that output until it is sent. Without constant input from their boss since they are working remotely, employees may slowly feel undervalued the longer they are far away from the office, and their employers may forget them.
There Is No Way To Build Strong Social Connections With Their Coworkers
A primary argument for those against a hybrid workplace is that employees don’t get a lot of chances to build social connections with their coworkers. Employees will feel the need to go to the office to speak to them and have a better work experience. Some may also find remote work isolating and make them feel disconnected from their peers.
It Will Be Hard To Compete For A Higher Position
People may become against hybrid workspaces because they believe it will make it hard to compete for a higher position. If they stay remote for a long time, it will disable them from showing their skills directly to their managers compared to those in the office for a long time. This problem will result in many hoping to have office work instead of remote work, even if it puts them at high risk of burnout.
In Many Ways…
Hybrid workspaces have their benefits, especially when people need to stay remote due to natural disasters or health emergencies. However, it is not a perfect system since not every industry can apply it, and employees may slowly lose interest in the setup once they find out its setbacks.
If you are considering it for your company, ask your employees first and plan how you will adopt it accordingly. Without it, your employees may find it hard to keep up with the new workplace and after your overall productivity.
Workplaces are like a second home since we are spending so much time in it. Here are a few more articles to read up on making your workplace a better place: Is a Sustainable Workplace Beneficial for Everyone? Understanding the Importance of Positive Relationships in the Workplace How to Develop a Growth Mindset at Your Workplace
Can’t get enough of MiddleMe? You can find me sharing my thoughts here as well: Instagram @kallymiddleme Twitter (MiddleMe_net) FaceBook (MiddleMe.net) LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/kallytay
Comments