The future of work is Hybrid. What does that mean?

The pandemic has demystified the process of working outside the office. With the increased productivity and reduced costs, there isn't a reason you shouldn't be doing this either. Here's how to build your hybrid workforce smoothly and sustainably.

Focus on communication.

Many companies make the mistake of using tried-and-tested management methods that worked well in a large corporate office and trying to transplant them into a hybrid model. A hybrid workforce calls for a hybridized management style and work style. The same methods of communication don't work in a hybrid environment. Rather than focusing on meetings as the ideal way to communicate information, consider ditching unnecessary meetings and replacing them with leaner and more concise methods of communication like slack. Creating quick daily and weekly stand-ups also helps leadership ensure teams are on task and is an excellent strategy that works for larger companies and teams. Optimize your management structure for a hybrid work model. 

Don't watch the clock.

Many managers hire staff on a hybrid model expecting increased productivity. They then micromanage staff to recreate an office "clock-in" and "clock-out" where employees have to register a certain number of hours every day. Monitoring your remote team all day will only sap your energy. It will also be demoralizing for your staff. Focus on a meritocratic and value-based system where you focus on results rather than time at work. That freedom for employees is part of the temptation for a hybrid model. 

Find the right team members (and check in on them).

While many employees want a hybrid work model, not everyone can thrive in such a structure. Staff that works well in a hybrid environment should be concise communicators, self-motivated learners with a streak of proactiveness. Consider doing 2-week probation to test if staff can work well in a hybrid work model and communicate effectively. 

Keep in mind that not everyone enjoys a hybrid work model. Some team members may fully enjoy the structured and disciplined nature of a traditional office. Some workers who work remotely may also miss socializing with their colleagues in person. The feelings of isolation may affect their mental health in the long term. Consider investing in a wellness program to build a healthy and resilient workforce.

Pick a suitable space.

While many companies will likely still retain physical offices, it's clear that they will not be the same. There will be a change in how we work in them and how we will use physical structures and office layouts for collaboration. For example, companies might have specific days for in-person meetings and cooperation and other days for remote work. The key is to provide an environment that doesn't feel like an office by basing your company in a co-working space. 

A co-working space like True Digital Park integrates work, leisure, and constant communication with peers, colleagues, and investors in one work environment. It provides the benefits of a conducive work environment and easy access to meeting space while still offering the flexibility and freedom of remote work. It's the best of both worlds.

If you're Interested in our co-working space, make a purchase online or meet our representative at Community Counter on 6F, True Digital Park. Contact member@truedigitalpark.com or call 063 931 2016  Monday to Friday 9.00 am – 6.00 pm

True Digital Park is Southeast Asia's largest tech and startup hub, spanning over 200,000 sqm. The park is a critical driver for the development of the startup and innovation ecosystem in Thailand. All under one roof, startups, entrepreneurs, tech companies, investors, accelerators, incubators, academies and government agencies co-exist in our interconnected ecosystem.