While the pandemic posed a lot of problems for modern businesses, it did also unlock the door to new opportunities. Perhaps most noticeably, it taught businesses that work from home setups can be very successful.
Most companies will find that an exclusive WFH model isn’t quite right. However, hybrid workforces where employees split their time between the two locations can be very effective. Given that 1 in 3 workers suggested they’d quit rather than return to a full-time office role, hybrid working clearly suits many workers. When you take the right steps, it can be the best solution for your business too.
Move To Smaller Locations
One of the best things about allowing some of your workers to stay home is that you can operate from a smaller office. Furthermore, it enables you to reduce tech equipment needs, utility bills, and more. In turn, you can reduce your running costs without compromising on productivity or quality.
Ending your current agreement to work from a smaller office can be further supported by moving out of the city. As long as it doesn't cause major disruption for on-site workers. If you find that you wish to retain a prestigious address to impress clients, virtual services are available.
Invest In The Managed IT
When operating from multiple locations, including those of remote workers, it creates a few tech headaches. Firstly, you must ensure that every device in your network is secure and that vulnerabilities have been quashed. Likewise, you must ensure that teams are able to collaborate in style.
With this in mind, you need a tailored network infrastructure that can be managed with 24/7 care. IT network solutions from Equipment HQ are the ideal solution for companies that use hybrid working. When both on-site and remote-based teams have the tools needed to thrive, hybrid setups are far smoother.
Rethink Communication
Your business probably used virtual team meetings throughout the pandemic, and they still serve a purpose. However, you must not let them become tedious or allow them to cause distractions. Where possible, using team messaging apps and project management tools to streamline the links will be key.
While there are several ways to make business travel less expensive, digital tech may be the best. It allows you to avoid travel altogether, meaning workers can get back to work sooner. Not all situations will enable this to happen, business owners should look to use it as often as possible.
Be Flexible
Hybrid workforces are often commended for their flexibility. So, if you want yours to work, it will be necessary to add some fluidity. My HR Toolkit discusses flexible annual leave, and it could be a useful tool. Also, setting schedules where home-based workers have assignments rather than hours can work well.
Business landscapes are changing, and employees should be at the forefront of your thinking. When they are engaged with the work, it’s likely that productivity will soar and human error will fall. When used in conjunction with the other steps above, success is assured.