Navigating the New Normal: A Guide to Hybrid Work Schedules
“As more companies adopt hybrid work models, it's crucial for workplace leaders to understand the different types of hybrid work schedules and how to choose the best one for their organization. This guide explores four common hybrid work schedules, key questions to consider before making a decision, and steps for successfully rolling out a new policy. ”
In recent years, the landscape of work has undergone a significant transformation. Gone are the days when most employees would arrive at their desks around 9 AM and leave at 5 PM. Today, the rise of hybrid work has introduced a new level of flexibility, with employees coming into the office at various times and on different days.
According to a 2022 study, 74% of U.S. companies either currently use or plan to implement a permanent hybrid work model. This shift aligns with employee sentiment, as nearly half (47%) of employees would seek alternative employment if their employer doesn't offer a hybrid working model.
For workplace leaders, this means navigating the challenges of implementing a hybrid model that balances employee preferences with company goals. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore:
- 4 types of hybrid work schedules
- Questions to ask before choosing a hybrid work schedule
- How to roll out a new hybrid work schedule
4 Types of Hybrid Work Schedules
Hybrid work combines the benefits of working in an office environment with the flexibility of working from home. It empowers employees to design their working week in a way that works for them while adhering to company policies. However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to hybrid work. Here are four common hybrid work schedules to consider:
1. Hybrid At-Will
According to our At Work survey, 56% of companies with a hybrid work model have an at-will schedule. This allows employees to choose which day(s) they come into the office, offering the highest level of flexibility. While this is the most common hybrid work policy in 2022, it can be challenging to plan for due to the lack of set requirements.
2. Hybrid Split-Week
In a split-week schedule, the company assigns specific days for teams to come into the office based on their function. For example, the marketing and data teams may come in on Tuesdays, while customer service and sales teams come in on Thursdays. This approach enables better planning, as companies know exactly how many and which employees will be onsite on any given day.
3. Hybrid Manager-Scheduling
The least common hybrid work schedule, used by only 8% of companies, is manager-scheduling. In this model, managers choose which day(s) their teams come into the office. This fosters high levels of productivity and collaboration, as managers can schedule team days for status updates, brainstorms, and working sessions.
4. Hybrid Mix
A hybrid mix is a combination of the above three schedules, with 25% of companies using this approach. Some employees come in at-will, some teams have scheduled onsite days, and others are manager-scheduled. This model offers the benefits of flexibility, choice, and planning.
Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Hybrid Work Schedule
Before selecting a hybrid work schedule, it's essential to consider the resources, technology, and workspace available. Ask yourself these key questions:
- What people or departments need to be onsite at the same time to be effective?
- How much time will it take to manage each type of schedule?
- Will this schedule support both my employees' preferences and company's goals?
- What workplace tools do I have to support a new schedule?
- What kind of schedule can my office space support?
Rolling Out Your New Policy
Once you've decided on the best hybrid work schedule for your organization, it's time to create a roll-out plan. Here are the steps to follow:
- Send out an employee survey to gather feedback on their preferred hybrid schedule.
- Set up the necessary workplace tools, such as employee scheduling, desk booking, and meeting room booking solutions.
- Run a trial with a test group and gather feedback to fine-tune your planning.
- Introduce your hybrid policy to the larger team, communicating guidelines and expectations clearly.
As more organizations find their groove with hybrid work, defining hybrid work schedules will be essential in keeping the workplace running smoothly. By understanding when and which teams and employees are coming into the office, you can create better opportunities for collaboration and build a strong sense of community.
Embracing the future of work means adapting to the evolving needs and expectations of your workforce. By carefully considering the different types of hybrid work schedules and following a thoughtful roll-out plan, you can successfully navigate this new normal and unlock the full potential of your hybrid workforce.
