Hybrid working has become the norm in many companies across the globe. In the US alone, 74 per cent of companies currently use or plan to implement a permanent hybrid work model
This unique work model is a blend of remote and in-office working. While it offers numerous benefits, it also comes with challenges. Credico, the Chicago-based broker of outsourced sales and marketing, understands that to make hybrid working models work, they must create an effective alternative to in-person communication to bring together team members working in different locations.
About Credico: https://www.credico.com/
Understanding the hybrid work environment
For employees, hybrid working means they can choose where and when they work. This flexible approach to the working day can improve work-life balance and increase job satisfaction. This, in turn, can increase productivity.
Employers can also reap the benefits of employing a hybrid workforce. Companies can access talent globally without geographical constraints rather than being restricted to a specific area. This opens up a whole new pool of potential employees with diverse skills.
However, hybrid teams also face unique challenges. How do they implement effective communication and collaboration among team members who are physically dispersed? And how can they avoid a disconnect developing between remote and in-person employees?
There is no doubt that disconnection can create a divide in team dynamics. To counteract this, organisations must establish clear guidelines and policies promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for remote and in-person employees.
It is important to remember that it is not about replicating an office environment but finding 'new ways' of working.
Thankfully, Credico and many companies worldwide are navigating this hybrid journey and finding ways to keep hybrid teams happy and productive. What else can be implemented to help hybrid teams work well collectively?
Communication tools
Credico looks after its hybrid teams, so they have invested in digital tools to help keep the team connected. To make it easier to collaborate, businesses such as Credico can implement communication tools like Microsoft Teams.
Other communication tools utilised for hybrid working include:
These platforms have enabled businesses to operate efficiently with hybrid teams by helping foster unity and keep everyone on the same page, overcoming the challenges of distance and time zones.
Setting clear expectations and goals
To lay the groundwork for successful hybrid working, it is crucial to:
With team members working both remotely and in-office, it is essential to establish a shared understanding of what needs to be accomplished.
Managers must adopt a more outcome-focused and impactful approach to create and maintain successful hybrid environments. At the same time, they must empower employees to figure out their own path toward achieving these outcomes and take full ownership of their work.
What are the advantages of focusing on outcomes and establishing clear expectations? It helps all those working in a hybrid environment avoid confusion and misunderstandings.
By setting goals, teams can have a clear roadmap of what they need to achieve and what is expected of them, creating a sense of direction and purpose. This boosts productivity and enhances collaboration and teamwork, as everyone knows what they are working towards.
How can managers create a clear roadmap to follow? Developing a comprehensive communication plan to establish these guidelines is key. This plan should outline how and when team members are expected to communicate through email, phone messaging, video calls, and project management tools. It should also address the frequency of check-ins and team meetings to keep everyone updated.
It is also essential to define the boundaries for remote work, such as availability during specific hours and response time for emails or messages.
Building trust and relationships
Credico has established a happy and connected workforce and understands that building trust in a hybrid work environment can be another significant challenge for employees and employers.
Team building activities and fostering personal connections are not just feel-good initiatives; they are essential for the success of any organisation, especially in a hybrid work environment. These activities help break down barriers and build trust between colleagues.
By engaging in team-building activities, employees get to know each other personally, which can lead to increased understanding and empathy. This can make all the difference for teamwork and collaborating on projects. What types of activities can be included?
Some ideas include:
These activities go a long way in strengthening relationships and nurturing a positive work culture.
Managing hybrid working is a journey that requires ongoing effort, but with the right strategies in place, employers and employees can enjoy the benefits of flexibility without compromising productivity.
ENDS
Source/citation: 30 essential hybrid work statistics [2023]: hybrid work model, data, and productivity
Credico socials
https://www.facebook.com/CredicoWorldwide/?locale=en_GB
https://twitter.com/CredicoGlobal
About Credico
Credico is a sales outsourcing company that has been in operation since 1991. It specialises in providing sales solutions for Fortune 150, mid-market, and non-profit organisations. Its approach combines face-to-face interactions with innovative technology applications to build strong customer relationships and maximise impact.
For more information about Credico and its services, FAQs and contact information are available on its website.
https://www.credico.com/
https://www.credico.com/press/credico-bridges-the-gap-strategies-for-effective-hybrid-team-collaboration/
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