Hybrid Remote Work Is Here To Stay

In a recent survey, the World Economic Forum found that two-thirds of people around the world want to work flexibly when the pandemic is over. Moreover, almost a third are prepared to quit their job if the boss makes them go back to the office full time. That’s a revealing data point that gives weight to the idea that some form of remote work is here to stay, and the hybrid office is here to accommodate.

{{divider}}

Remote Rules

{{divider}}

There have been many predictions that the COVID-19 pandemic would permanently change the world of work. According to a new global survey, that’s just what has happened, with a majority of people across the world saying they want to keep working flexibly from home.

{{divider}}

An Ipsos survey for the World Economic Forum among 12,500 employed people in 29 countries found that a majority want flexible working to become the norm. And almost a third (30%) said they would consider looking for another job if they were forced to go back to the office full time.

{{divider}}

The survey also challenges a number of dire predictions about the effects of remote working. Experts warned people would miss their co-workers, be less productive and become burned out — but the survey finds only minority support for these views.

{{divider}}

The re-opening of many co-working spaces has filled the void for contact-time, 64% said they were more productive with a flexible work schedule, and only a third complained of burn out. Only one in three said they felt disengaged from work when working remotely.

{{divider}}

The percentage demanding more flexible working was roughly similar among people with children aged under 17 (68%) and those with no children (63%). But not everyone in the survey wanted to work from home all the time.

{{divider}}

Globally, a quarter of people want to work in the office five days a week as soon as the pandemic is over, with the strongest support in Mexico (40%). More than a third of people in South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Peru, India, and the US also want to return five days a week.

{{divider}}

Among those favouring flexible working, the average number of days per week people want to work from home is 2.5. People in China, Belgium and France are least keen, favouring just 1.9 days a week from home while people in India are the most enthusiastic, wanting 3.4 days.

{{divider}}

The survey highlights the shift to remote working caused by COVID-19. Before the pandemic 53% said they mostly or always worked in an office. At the time of the survey, conducted between 21 May and 4 June 2021, that figure had dropped to 39%.

{{divider}}

Best Of Both Worlds

{{divider}}

Major accounting firms such as Deloitte and KPMG, have also been giving employees more choice to work remotely in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. For example PwC employees who choose to work virtually would have to come into the office a maximum of three days a month for in-person appointments such as critical team meetings, client visits and learning sessions.

{{divider}}

One of the main benefits of flexible working is it's ability to offer the best of all worlds. This means delivering value to all stakeholders - employees, businesses and customers alike. The hybrid workspace is increasingly popular because it does exactly that.

{{divider}}

Combining the traditional office with the flexi-space of the future, this model is the perfect stepping stone for businesses looking to diversify without starting from scratch. Most often, the hybrid office consists of a central Head Quarters, with multiple satellite offices, and remote working practices.

{{divider}}

A central HQ is typically a traditional office with a long-term lease arrangement. This serves as a focal point for important meetings and correspondence. Employees then have the option to use local workspaces and other satellite offices, for day-to-day workspace needs.

{{divider}}

This perfectly integrates with the move towards flexible working hours and policies. Giving people the choice to shift their environment depending on their demands. As we head into a more remote world, such practices ensure that businesses stay innovative and adaptable, without compromising on integrity.

{{divider}}

At its core, what the hybrid workplace stands for is a better balance. As human beings we need social interaction, not to mention the energy, cooperation and collaboration that comes from being with colleagues or within a buzzy co-working atmosphere. This has an impact not just on our work, but on our mental health and wellbeing too.

{{divider}}

With an increasing number of SMEs taking the lead when it comes to making health central to the workplace revolution, the re-opening of the office is cause for celebration. From finding more meaning and purpose through work, to fostering community and adjusting workspace practices, there’s never been a better time to join such a progressive space.

{{divider}}

‍