Hybrid working – what is it?

The situation, triggered by the coronavirus pandemic, has meant that the classic, stationary form of performing employee duties has gone by the wayside. Corporations as well as medium-sized and small companies have started to introduce hybrid working. It is much more appreciated by employees. What is it and what forms can it take?

In this article you will find out:

• What is hybrid working?
• What are the characteristics of hybrid working?
• Where will hybrid working work fit in?
• What are the advantages of hybrid working?
• What are the disadvantages of hybrid working?

Definition of hybrid working

Hybrid working is a flexible employment model that reflects an evolution in the way modern organisations manage their teams. The definition of hybrid work, although difficult to establish universally, has found its way into the Labour Code since 2023. Nevertheless, differences between companies mean that each has its own interpretation of what hybrid work means.

Hybrid working is a working model in which employee duties are carried out remotely and in a traditional, on-site form.

Definition of hybrid working

This type of performance of employee duties can take many forms. It carries both advantages and disadvantages.

Features of hybrid working

Hybrid work is a rather specific work model. Its main features include:

• flexible location – on days when employees perform their duties remotely, they can customise their workplace – they do not necessarily have to work from their home – they can choose any location,
• use of modern technology – hybrid working (especially the remote part of it) is also distinguished by the need to use appropriate technological solutions that allow employees to perform their tasks efficiently and communicate effectively,
• flexible working hours – by working remotely, your team members can adapt their working hours to their own needs and work on a task-based basis, which can make them more efficient (some people are more productive in the afternoon, for example),
• balanced working hours – by working partly remotely, your employees will have more time for their private lives (they will not have to spend time commuting to and from work every day),
• a distinctive organisational culture in a company – the organisational culture is also slightly different in companies where employees can partially perform their duties remotely – then employers have to trust their team members more and believe that even when they are not in the office, they will be able to conscientiously fulfil their tasks.

Places where hybrid working will work well

It is worth bearing in mind that not every company will be able to combine remote working with on-site working, i.e. hybrid working. It is difficult to imagine a beauty salon or a car repair shop where employees also perform services from their home. However, there are companies where the hybrid working model will work well. Examples are industries such as:

• IT,
• accounting
• administration,
• marketing,
• e-commerce.

Copywriters, editors, translators, lawyers and other professionals who offer services that can be performed remotely can also work remotely.

Advantages of hybrid working

Many companies have opted for hybrid (or even fully remote) working in order to win over potential employees who are specialists in a particular field. However, this does not mean that hybrid working does not contribute to the development and better functioning of the business itself. It brings many benefits, including:

• Increases employee productivity – flexibility as to hours and location results in greater autonomy, which translates into better use of time. Not having to commute to the office avoids interruptions. In addition, the ability to choose when to come to the office promotes personal collaboration at optimal times.
• Allows for lower indirect costs – remember that companies also benefit from hybrid working by reducing costs. Reducing the office space needed or even moving offices to smaller cities helps to reduce overheads.
• Providing employees with a work-life balance – flexibility and the ability to schedule their own hours translates into employee satisfaction. Hybrid working has a positive impact on the overall wellbeing of employees. The hybrid working model also promotes a better work-life balance.
• Allows for social distance – hybrid working makes it easier to comply with safety measures and also allows contacts to be monitored when necessary. This is very important in the event of a pandemic.

Disadvantages of hybrid working

Hybrid working, despite its many advantages, also comes with some disadvantages, which from a business perspective can be significant. Firstly, hybrid working can create challenges when it comes to managing a team, especially if some employees work remotely and some are stationary. Coordinating work, monitoring progress, maintaining communication and ensuring effective collaboration will be much more difficult for managers and directors.

Employees working in different locations, for example in the office and remotely, very often have unequal access to company information and resources. This translates into levels of engagement or work efficiency. If you want to introduce a hybrid working model, therefore, be sure to implement it properly – so that you get the planned results and achieve your business goals.