While some companies tighten their flexible working rules, or even mandate that employees return to the office to work, Stephanie Kelly, Chief People Officer at IRIS Software Group argues they should take one last chance to re-evaluate their remote working policies in order to maximise collaboration and productivity within decentralised teams.
despite recent data by the Office for National Statistics, which shows that 28% working adults in Great Britain still embrace hybrid work, a number of major corporations are now reversing flexible work policies.
Santander and Asda are among the companies that have tightened the remote work arrangements originally introduced during the Covid Pandemic. This has raised critical questions regarding the future of workplace flexibility.
This shift occurs at a moment when businesses are already struggling with an increasing talent shortage. According to research, a third (35%) of UK employees aged between 25 and 34 would consider quitting if they were required to work full-time. Removing hybrid policies can lead to employee dissatisfaction and reputational damage for companies. Workers are increasingly looking for flexibility in their career.
Studies have shown hybrid work arrangements to boost employee productivity, allowing them to work where they are most productive.
Businesses can’t afford talent retention or productivity to be compromised. Reappraising remote working approaches may produce better results than limiting employee freedom.
Hybrid models for retention are essential
Return-to-office policies, which are often framed as strategies to increase efficiency and encourage collaboration, can result in the loss of highly skilled and experienced employees just when they are needed most.
Hybrid working allows employees to be flexible while also allowing them to work in an environment that maximizes their productivity. It can also enhance job satisfaction, reduce burnout and foster a healthier balance between work and life.
Some employers are hesitant to adopt hybrid models because they worry about employee oversight. Instead of abandoning a retention tool that is effective, businesses should use technology and training to make the hybrid system beneficial for everyone.
Equipping leaders for hybrid Success
Hybrid teams present unique challenges for managers. They must develop new skills, such as communication, performance management, and building trust. Businesses should prioritize leadership training to equip managers with tools that will foster engagement among geographically dispersed team members.
Hybrid managers must go beyond traditional leadership skills. They need to master digital communication first, create clear expectations both for in-office employees and remote workers, and foster a culture that rewards accountability without micromanagement.
Technology can help. Businesses should incorporate smart tools into their leadership training, such as employee-engagement analytics, to improve decision-making. This will allow leaders to support their teams wherever they are.
Egalities for all
Digital platforms also play a crucial role in leveling the playing field for in-office teams and remote teams. Businesses can bridge communication gaps by using advanced HR analytics, collaboration platforms, and digital engagement tools. They can also monitor employee sentiment and create inclusive workplaces.
These tools, which include video conferencing, productivity tracking and organisational network analyses, ensure that employees from all locations have the same opportunities to thrive and contribute.
In order to retain talent, it is important that employees feel valued and empowered in their role. Continuous learning and professional growth are known to contribute significantly to job satisfaction and career engagement.
When paired with accessible learning programmes, hybrid working models allow employees to take charge of their own growth. This can be done through digital courses, mentoring programmes, or personalized learning pathways. Businesses can future-proof their workforce by investing in upskilling technology. They also foster a culture that is innovative and resilient.
If implemented properly, hybrid working can help to ensure greater staff retention while reducing the talent gap. Businesses that adopt hybrid models can gain an edge over their competitors by attracting and retaining the best talent.
Instead of reversing flexible working policies, organisations should optimize their remote work to create an environment that benefits employees as well as business success.
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