In lieu of the raging pandemic that wreaked havoc, claimed lives, and upended normal routine, the working model we are accustomed to having changed drastically. Nowadays, the concept of hybrid work has gained immense prominence. It is basically the perfect mix of remote and in-office work that aids in improving the productivity of the employees. It is fairly evident that the world is shifting towards a hybrid work arrangement. However, the hybrid work challenges associated with it are real, complex, and troublesome. The only way to find potential solutions is to acknowledge the issues and work towards finding suitable answers.
Top 5 hybrid work challenges
There are various challenges that can come when following the hybrid work model. Take a look at some of the hybrid work challenges listed here –
1. Absence of a data-driven approach
The lack of data and the impact of hybrid work on a business organization still remains unclear. Leaders tend to depend on reliable data to understand if a particular thing is beneficial for the company. However, the absence of generalized and robust data on hybrid work and its impact is alarming. That is why it is vital for business organizations to focus more on gathering data in order to gain better insights.
2. Coordination complexities
The hybrid work model brings forth coordination challenges that heighten due to the aspect of not working together. It leads to Faultline, a term coined by researchers for the gap in conversations that might occur. It is, without a doubt, that coordinating with employees that work remotely requires more effort. In the midst of all this extra effort, small exchanges or decisions can be left out. Eventually, this can become bigger and lead to the elimination of important decisions and conversations. If not handled carefully, it may lead to pent-up resentment and long-lasting grudges among the different employees of the company. Thus, coordination needs to be focused on for improved productivity.
3. No clear definition
If more time is spent on really thinking about the idea of hybrid work, it is found that the concept is neither new nor unique. It has been prevalent for a long period of time, though known by other terms. These include working from home, smart working, virtual working, etc. The lack of a concise definition makes it impossible to understand the idea completely. The only thing that we know is that it allows freedom and flexibility to the employees. In order to gain more productivity, the definition needs to be clearer and thought upon.
4. Endangerment of creativity
Hybrid work brings danger to creativity. For starters, individual creativity is at great risk. It is true that alone time aids in coming up with novel ideas and innovative concepts. Bun, over time, this can become dull and boring. It is noted that social interactions and conversations with co-workers can lead to the invention of a unique idea. Apart from this, collective creativity is also threatened. Attending zoom calls for brainstorming is definitely not the same as working together to agree on a common idea and move forward. Resolving issues together leads to strengthening team bonds that hybrid work doesn’t allow. Due to a lack of friendly communication and thought exchange, remotely working blocks innovation and creativity.
5. Lack of connection
People remotely working often encounter a lack of social and professional connection. The absence of real-time networking and interaction with others leads to a loss of opportunities. It is essential to understand the importance of mentorship and professional networks. Building and nurturing them is crucial for sustaining in this challenging landscape. Moreover, forming personal bonds with co-workers helps to work more peacefully. When you enjoy working with your colleagues, the quality of the work increases automatically. On the other hand, hybrid working can lead to the unfortunate division of the employees, causing unrest and unhappiness among them.
These are the hybrid work challenges that almost every business organization encounters. Here, the leaders of the businesses must step forward to ensure that the workforce continues working seamlessly without any compromise to the beliefs and values of the company. Addressing the problems and working towards resolving the complex issues is a step in the right direction.
Also Read: How Technology Can Enhance Employee Engagement
