5 tips for optimizing hybrid working

Hybrid working, which combines telecommuting and office presence, is gradually becoming the preferred work organization in many companies. In France, this model is particularly popular: 62% of employees say they prefer hybrid working, compared with 49% in the rest of the world, according to a study conducted by Atlassian and Paper Giant. These figures are backed up by Culture RH, which points out that hybrid working is evolving at the same pace as the flexible workspace market, and that France is the 2nd largest market for flexible workspaces in Europe (behind the UK). However, this way of working is not without its challenges. For hybridization to work in favor of the company and its teams, it's essential to apply the right practices.

Here are five key tips to make hybrid working a success.

1. Rely on trust

Trust your employees: this is the first step to making hybrid working a success and developing a flexible working strategy. With the spread of telecommuting, many employees have gained in autonomy, and the persistent doubts of some managers about the productivity of remote teams often lead to what is known as a "workaholism".often lead to what is known as the " productivity theater " - in other words, employees trying to prove that they are working, rather than actually concentrating on their tasks.

A recent study also shows that 87% of employees believe they are productive when teleworking, while only 12% of decision-makers believe their teams are productive when teleworking. This lack of confidence can lead employees to invest more energy in visible efforts than in their work itself.

To mitigate this risk, put your trust in employees' commitment and productivity, by enabling them to focus on results rather than appearances, and by offering them workspaces adapted to their needs , in which they will enjoy meeting as a team outside the company walls.

2. Prioritize clear objectives

In a hybrid environment, where teams don't see each other every day, clarity of objectives and expectations is paramount. Without a clear vision, employees can easily lose sight of the company's priorities. To avoid this, define clear and measurable objectives, such as OKRs(Objectives and Key Results), for each team and each employee.

Mission clarity enables employees to better organize their days and prioritize their tasks, knowing exactly where to focus their efforts. Regular communication of corporate priorities also gives meaning to daily tasks, andstrengthens team alignment with strategic objectives. In short, it's essential to communicate what matters most so that everyone can move forward efficiently and in line with the company's vision. A subject to be coupled with access to the right tools and technologies. Both of which can be found in flexible workspaces, sometimes even better than on the company's own premises.

3. Encouraging connection and cohesion

Hybrid working can create a divide between on-site and telecommuting teams, damaging overall cohesion. To avoid this disconnection,encourage joint attendance times and regular team activities, whether in the office or at the telecommuting site. For example, plan specific days when all employees meet at the office for team-building activities.

4. Encourage continuous feedback

Feedback is essential to optimize the hybrid model and meet employee expectations. Companies that opt for this organization must establish a feedback culture. This means setting up regular survey tools to find out how teams feel about new working methods, identify areas for improvement and maintain a positive dynamic.

360° feedback is a particularly effective method for gathering feedback from employees and their peers, thus fostering integration and individual development. Thanks to this feedback, management teams and managers can adjust practices to improve the work experience. Beyond feedback, it's also an opportunity to pay particular attention to the services provided and/or required for the smooth running of everyone's activity.

5. Offer prospects for development

Professional fulfillment and skills development are essential expectations of our employees. Development opportunities are now a crucial criterion for team well-being. In response, companies need to offer appropriate training to develop skills, both technical and interpersonal, and enable employees to progress, as well as softskills. By encouraging development, you will reinforce the corporate culture and demonstrate your commitment to the progress of every employee.

Hybrid working can be a real asset for companies when it is well managed. The keys to success lie in trust, clear objectives, connection and cohesion, feedback and evolution. By implementing these practices, your company will benefit from a fluid and harmonious hybrid organization, where every employee feels listened to, supported and motivated to contribute fully to the achievement of objectives.