But striking the right balance between remote and in-office work is crucial for maximising employee productivity, collaboration, and overall satisfaction according to Linda Trim, Director at Giant Leap, one of SA’s largest workplace design consultancies.
“Ever since the virus came under control, companies have been grappling with an issue that has elicited strong feelings from those in the C-suite as well as those confined to a cubicle: Should they pull all of their employees back to the office? Or should they let them work from home?
Our research suggests that the optimal answer is yes—and yes. A blended approach is often best.
The Rise of Hybrid Work
A 2022 study by McKinsey & Company found that 52% of all work could potentially be done from anywhere. This flexibility has fueled the rise of hybrid work models, where employees split their time between working at home and in the office.
The Benefits of Balance
Research suggests that a hybrid model offers the best of both worlds.
“A Harvard Business School study published in Harvard Magazine found that employees who spent 23-40% of their time in the office reported higher levels of happiness, manager satisfaction, and knowledge-sharing compared to fully remote or fully in-office counterparts,” Trim noted.
Collaboration and Innovation
In-person interaction fosters creativity and collaboration, crucial aspects of innovation and problem-solving. "There's a real benefit to having people together, brainstorming, whiteboarding, and just having those spontaneous conversations," said Trim.
Employee Wellbeing and Flexibility
Hybrid work also enhances employee well-being.
Studies by Stanford University and the University of Chicago's Becker Friedman Institute for Research in Economics, show that remote work can lead to increased productivity and reduced burnout.
"A hybrid model allows for more autonomy and control over one's work schedule, which can lead to better work-life balance and ultimately, higher levels of employee satisfaction," Trim said.
Finding the Right Mix
While the benefits are clear, determining the ideal office-to-remote ratio requires careful consideration.
The Harvard Business School study suggests a ‘sweet spot’ of 2-3 days in the office per week for knowledge-based jobs. However, the optimal balance can vary depending on factors like industry, team dynamics, and individual job requirements.
Leading the Way in Hybrid Work
Several companies are successfully implementing hybrid models. For instance, American media company Charter Communications allows employees significant flexibility, with most teams working collaboratively on-site roughly 50% of the time.
“It gives employees more control over their schedules and fosters a culture of trust and accountability," said Trim.
The Future of Work
As companies continue to refine hybrid models, it's crucial to prioritize clear communication, establish effective collaboration tools, and invest in building a strong company culture that thrives in a distributed environment.
“By striking the right balance between flexibility and in-person interaction, companies can unlock the full potential of a hybrid workforce, leading to increased productivity, innovation, and a happier, more engaged employee base.” Trim concluded.
