How to Create a Cohesive Hybrid Workplace

The new normal includes major changes in the workplace. A significant portion of companies are now working in a hybrid model, alternating between in-person and remote work. According to Forbes, “In a recent report out of Accenture, 83% of 9,326 workers surveyed say they prefer a hybrid model – in which they can work remotely at least 25% of the time.” This is significant because a key takeaway from studies regarding high employee-turnover rates is employee happiness and satisfaction. Savvy CEOs are listening to the wants of their employees, and are allowing 86% of workers to work hybrid. The results show increased employee happiness and an overall increase in productivity. It can be a win-win situation if you learn to do it right.

Despite these statistics, many CEOs are concerned about the isolation that remote workers may face. Will remote workers get left behind, while in-person workers glean greater rewards for staying in the loop? How do you ensure that your remote team is not isolated, and foster cohesion between in-person and remote workers? Read further for tips on how to ensure that your entire team is tight-knit, on the same page, and working towards the same goal.

Clear, Consistent Communication Across the Board

The number one mistake made by companies using a remote or hybrid work model is a lack of convenient, consistent communication between employees and between management and employees.

The first step here is ensuring that you are making use of resources that are fully available to both your remote and on-site workers. If you have remote workers, it is crucial to make use of modern, efficient technology, to avoid your remote team falling behind (and getting frustrated) because their programs are faulty or unreliable.

Likewise, try to streamline communication as much as possible. Rather than using several different platforms, like Zoom, Slack, Outlook, Google Docs, etc., seek a comprehensive platform that both remote and in-person workers can easily access. Implement company-wide use of a reputable communication program and eradicate the use of any other programs so that everyone is always on the same page.

Our virtual and in-person seminar on communication is one of the most popular topics that we bring to businesses. If interested, take a look at our seminar topics here.

Gather Feedback

Part of having good communication between your hybrid teams is ensuring that you, as their leader, are open to communication. In a physical office, this can be signified by simply leaving your door open. An open-door policy online is a bit more difficult to implement. Try reaching out to employees yourself to check in, or leave a status on your communication platform that says, “Message me any time!”

Workers appreciate feeling heard, and knowing that their opinion matters. If hybrid working is a newer model for your company, ask your employees how they are doing. Inquire about the hybrid work model, what is working for them, and what could be improved. Doing so will only make for a smoother transition and better business. The American Psychological Association released a study that revealed that 93% of employees who feel valued are motivated to do their best at work. Thus, gathering earnest feedback and checking in with remote workers should be a no-brainer.

Team Building Activities that Support Both On-site and At-home Workers

Team building is an important aspect of company culture, employee retention, and overall productivity. Team building within a hybrid company can be challenging, but it must not be overlooked. A mixture of in-person and virtual events is a good idea to make sure that everyone feels included.

Virtual team-building events could include a cooking class, a group workout, an online scavenger hunt, or a virtual happy hour. Hosting a live seminar with a professional speaker is also a good inspiring, virtual team-building activity.

Scheduling in-person retreats for all team members is a good way to get everyone together. Be sure to make remote teams feel safe with either required COVID testing or vaccination proof. In-person team building activities that can also host virtual viewers are useful options as well.

Bring in an expert to foster cohesion between your virtual and in-person teams. Try our Culture Program to see the benefits of hosting meetings and team-building activities for your hybrid workers.

Location aside, better business arises from happier, motivated workers. Fostering cohesion between remote and in-person workers helps to build a strong team of employees who share the same goal and vision for your company. Rather than monitoring daily tasks for the risk of micromanaging and creating resentment within your team, focus on a more results-driven approach. If the work is getting done regardless, that’s all that really matters.

For help building a cohesive company culture between your remote and in-person teams, contact us to learn about our robust Culture Program.