Remote work, hybrid schedules, and flexible office hours are becoming standard practices in the workplace. Each can be unique to the office environment or industry. To help ensure success across your organization, let’s start with the basics:
Remote Work – Remote work is a type of working arrangement that allows an employee to work from a remote location outside of corporate offices.
Hybrid Schedules – Hybrid schedules combine both remote, in person, and even flex hours.
Flex Hours – Flex hours are an arrangement that allows an employee to alter the starting and/or end time of her/his workday. Employees still work the same number of scheduled hours as they would under a traditional schedule.
Once you determine which type of work arrangement is suitable for your office environment, here are some points to consider:
Evaluate your Hardware: If employees are working remotely or hybrid, they will need access to company files and programs. Laptops, wifi connections, and other accessories may be needed to allow employees to work productively and effectively.
Establish Schedules: Whether remote, hybrid or working flexible hours, each employee’s schedule should be defined. Use a shared calendar to indicate everyone’s schedule. Also, set a firm day and time for weekly staff meetings. This allows everyone to convene together at a designated time each week. This makes planning meetings and schedules easier and a great way to stay abreast of what everyone is working on.
Take Advantage of Technology: Video tools, CRM databases, and project management programs make it easier for team members to collaborate on projects and tasks regardless of their location.
Keep Communication Open: Maintaining company culture is key to the business’s success. Be proactive and organize events for both in-office and remote work staff. Employees appreciate a manager who is a clear communicator and offers clear direction.
Here is a list of additional resources from The Society for Human Resource Management: