How to Hire for a Hybrid Working Office

Companies are embracing the hybrid working model to combine the benefits of remote work and in-person collaboration.

Implementing a hybrid working office not only offers cost savings, but also enhances employee retention, productivity, and overall satisfaction.

We’re going to outline how to use the best methods for hiring your hybrid workforce. But first, why is it an advantage to have one at all?

Why Companies Would Choose a Hybrid Working Office

The advantages of a hybrid working office are compelling. By implementing a hybrid work model, companies can achieve cost savings of up to 40% compared to traditional office setups.

This is due to not requiring as large offices and cheaper bills for heat and electricity as there are fewer staff in the office at once. The savings are especially high if you have everyone working remotely at the same time, such as companies that let staff work from home on Fridays.

It isn’t merely the cost savings on office space that would encourage a business to go hybrid. Organisations that adopt a hybrid work model experience a 12% reduction in employee turnover rates due to their increased satisfaction. That is a great deal of time saved, stress reduced, and less downtime spent recruiting, onboarding, and training new hires as often.

These cost savings and improved employee retention significantly contribute to the appeal of hybrid working offices from the employer’s perspective.

Additionally, a report by McKinsey & Company reveals that 88% of organisations reported equal or increased productivity during the remote side of their staff’s hybrid work, and 68% believe remote work is as or more effective than on-site work in the long term.

Benefits of Hybrid Working Models for Employees

Hybrid working models offer numerous benefits to employees, including:

1. Flexibility: Hybrid work allows employees to enjoy a flexible work arrangement, balancing their professional and personal lives more effectively. It provides the freedom to work from different locations and adapt their schedules to meet individual needs.
2. Work-Life Balance: More time at home, less time getting ready, and less time commuting allows employees to gain back some personal time, leading to reduced stress levels, improved mental health, and increased job satisfaction.
3. Commute Savings: By reducing or eliminating the daily commute, hybrid work saves employees time and money, while also reducing carbon emissions and contributing to a more sustainable environment.
4. Increased Autonomy: Hybrid work empowers employees by providing them with greater autonomy and trust in managing their tasks and responsibilities. This autonomy can foster a sense of ownership and boost motivation and creativity.

So, now that we know the reasons on both sides of the equation for why you would desire a hybrid office, how can successfully hire for one?

Tips for Hiring in a Hybrid Working Office

Showcase A Truly Hybrid Ethos To Potential Candidates

Make your organisation attractive to candidates seeking a hybrid work model by clearly communicating your commitment to and support for hybrid work arrangements at every stage of engagement. Highlight the benefits and flexibility of your work model in job descriptions and during interviews.

Target the Right Candidates

Craft job descriptions that specifically mention the keyword ‘hybrid work’. Emphasise this aspect right away to attract candidates interested in this work style. Utilise job boards and platform search algorithms that cater to professionals seeking remote or flexible work opportunities.

Leverage Technology

The right technology can streamline the hiring process. Modern communication and collaboration tools are what allow remote work to be so effective. This tech can even let the recruitment process be remote. How you recruit should reflect hybrid working, including video interviews, online assessments, and virtual onboarding.

Supportive Management

Train managers to effectively support and manage hybrid teams. Provide guidance on communication practices, performance management, and creating an inclusive environment that supports both remote and in-person employees.

Seamless Onboarding

Develop a comprehensive onboarding program for new hires, including remote employees. Ensure that all necessary equipment and resources are provided promptly and assign a dedicated mentor or buddy to help remote employees navigate their roles and the company culture.

Equipment Provision

Equip remote employees with the necessary technology and tools to perform their roles effectively. Consider a Device as a Service (DaaS) solution, such as Devices For Teams. This provides employees with leased devices and ongoing support, ensuring they have the right equipment for their work.

Devices For Teams is more than just a package for leasing hardware. It is the perfect solution if you have a hybrid office. Computers can be remotely configured to staff’s individual needs with their software, accounts, apps and more. These devices are then deployed directly to their homes.

Devices For Teams provides comprehensive ongoing support and other IT services that help maintain a positive hybrid working system, for example, assistance with cyber security software and MDM setup. MDM products like Shepherd allow managers to remotely control how hybrid workers use their devices. You can dictate what apps can be downloaded, how company data is used and even wipe lost and stolen devices.

Other Devices For Teams services, such as Boomerang, can help you repurpose devices between staff members, including the retrieval and redeployment of that hardware.

SafeGuard insurance is also on offer from Devices For Teams, which is ideal for businesses insuring devices used in hybrid or home working business models. A DaaS solution such as this facilitates safe hybrid working and provides equipment to workers.

Establish Structure

Create clear guidelines and expectations for hybrid employees, including core working hours, communication channels, and project management processes. Regularly review and refine these guidelines to ensure alignment and effectiveness.

Effective Communication

Establish effective communication channels and practices that foster collaboration and inclusivity among all team members. Leverage tools like instant messaging platforms, video conferences, and project management software to ensure seamless communication and information sharing.

Creating a successful hybrid working office requires careful consideration and strategic planning. By embracing the benefits of hybrid work, promoting a supportive work culture, leveraging technology, and implementing effective hiring and onboarding practices, companies can attract and retain top talent.