The world of work is changing, and as the shift towards hybrid working becomes the ‘new norm’, we question whether it’s here to stay for the long-term. Perhaps you are of the view that this is a short-term, post-pandemic trend? Regardless of the current tug-of-war between employers and employees on this topic, workers are demanding more flexibility in the workplace, and this is a rising trend in the recruitment world too.
Change is inevitable - we’re witnessing this change first-hand in terms of our own candidate recruitment and the recent search mandates we’ve handled, where this has been critical in the selection process. Like many businesses and organisations, we are keen to provide the best of both worlds.
But we are seeing changes in candidate’s attitudes, in relation to their job search requirements.
Research suggests that hybrid working may be here to stay. A survey by Envoy and Sapio found that 57% of those surveyed in the UK preferred a hybrid model, splitting their working hours between their home and office. One of the biggest concerns for employees is commuting; this has been cited as a deal-breaker when considering job roles. The top factor for a worker’s happiness was reported as having flexibility in their working schedule.
Attracting team talent in a hybrid world
An interesting outcome of the pandemic was the general increase in hours and yet many reports show that remote workers felt happier and were more productive. Has the time come to measure output rather than office time? The big question remains: should employees be centred around the work they do and not where they do it? This debate is ongoing across the world.
From our perspective, and the multiple organisations we support, candidates are seeking a more flexible working environment, which is forcing employers to adapt. If employers choose to be less flexible when it comes to agile working, they may lose out on attracting key talent. We are also seeing an increase in senior executives negotiating work-from-home clauses in employment contracts.
Implementation of hybrid technology is key
Operating a hybrid working environment can be challenging, so having a robust and suitable IT infrastructure is important. Ensuring the right technology to support remote working will be the key to whether your business activities run smoothly. Such technologies need to be designed around the needs of a job role, for example, setting up remote call centre workers.
A successful hybrid workplace needs to ensure the lines of communication between on-site and remote employees are open and free flowing. A combination of collaborative and efficient workplace tools and software may need to be implemented to support your business operations. In some cases, you may need to adapt or even redesign your existing technology to ensure a seamless integration throughout your departments.
A large proportion of businesses and IT leaders see hybrid work as the future of their business. According to a survey of IT professionals, 42% believe that over half of their workforce will be hybrid post-pandemic. This is similar to a poll conducted by Willis Towers Watson across 121 businesses, who found that two in five businesses (41%) are ready to embrace hybrid working.
Do you think the hybrid workplace is here to stay for the long-term? Have you rolled out any measures that support the blend of on-site and remote working? In our opinion, there’s no denying that the future of work is hybrid – it is here to stay. It is time for employers to embrace the hybrid workplace by implementing key measures that will ensure employees are able to develop and thrive. Because a thriving workforce leads to greater productivity.
Mandy Turpin
Director - Teare Executive Search
If you would like to discuss this board-level insight or need an experienced Executive Recruiter, who brings the know-how to attract senior talent nationally, then contact us today.
Mandy Turpin, Director, Teare Executive Search on 01625 315 017 or via email mandy.turpin@teareexec.com
