Navigating the Remote/Office Hybrid Model

In early 2020, more businesses went partially or fully remote than ever before. In-office operations were migrated to work-from-home setups out of necessity, and companies were tasked with adapting these workflows almost immediately in order to continue serving their clients.

Now, as businesses reopen and the ability to re-enter an office environment is somewhat restored, these businesses are facing more questions. In the process of shifting to remote work, many individuals established remote setups that allowed them to be just as productive, which begs the question: how should the remote component of a company’s workflow be handled now?

The future is certainly hybrid. Business leaders have realized through trial by fire that they can subsist with fewer in-person meetings than they likely expected, and many companies have chosen not to re-invest in brick-and-mortar locations of the same size and cost as before the pandemic. But for those businesses that require at least some in-person coordination, how should the balance be navigated? The answer will be slightly different for each business, and likely for each team within the business, but here are some guiding questions to help determine the best hybrid setup for your organization.

What is the Culture of the Firm?

Identifying the key values of your firm will help determine how you should implement a hybrid work plan. If your company culture is one of diligence, collectivism, and rigorous teamwork, maybe less remote optionality is preferred. However, if individualism and personal accountability are most important, your firm should have a relatively smooth transition to a more remote model.

What is the Function of the Team?

The actual processes that each team engages in are key components to navigating the best hybrid model. Does your team engage in lively collaboration or require constant communication on projects? Or is the majority of the work done on an individual basis, such as data analysis and research? The answers to these questions should color your plans as well.

How is the Work Schedule Typically Arranged?

Any schedule implemented by your team should accent and support the schedule under which you naturally operate. If your team members can work independently at different times of day on their respective projects, remote capabilities might be a worthwhile investment. If most of the work requires time-sensitive team involvement and collaboration, it is more difficult to facilitate this remotely.

What Do the Commutes of Each Team Member Look Like?

Put simply, the time your teammates spend getting to the office is the time taken away from other things – their work, sleep, and personal life. If the majority of your team has a lengthy commute to the office, nipping this for a few days per week could save your business a large number of man-hours.

What Do Team Members Prefer?

Your most important asset is your people. Crafting the right work model for your team should be based primarily on what works best for them. Each team’s preferences will be nuanced depending on their home setup and the factors listed above, but aligning your work plan with the desires of your team will help foster better culture and improved work product.

Partner with IT/IQ

Your business is unique, and it requires unique staffing solutions. IT/IQ Tech Recruiters is a specialized recruitment firm providing contract and permanent IT recruitment services to employers across Canada. Our Account Management team takes the time to understand our clients’ corporate culture, strategic initiatives, and resourcing requirements. Meanwhile, a team of specialized recruiters is constantly building connections with IT professionals, working to understand their capabilities, goals, and career ambitions. Together, we are committed to helping our candidates develop their careers, and our clients to complete their projects successfully. In short, we create opportunities for IT professionals to empower business. Visit us at it-iq.com to learn more about how we can help propel your business forward.

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