Posted on March 12th, 2024

The post-pandemic workplace is a mixed bag with threads of flexibility and remote possibilities. The rigid 9-to-5 office has loosened its grip, replaced it with a hybrid model that offers flexibility and a wider pool talent, it also presents a unique challenge: fostering a strong company culture and employee engagement when your team isn't always physically together. So, are we experiencing a "hybrid hangover," struggling to adapt to this new normal, or is there a high five in our future, signifying thriving teams in a hybrid and back-to-work environment?

Let's delve into the statistics and explore what companies can do to bridge the gap.

The Allure of Flexibility (and the Disconnect)

• The Flex Jobs Advantage: A staggering 95% of working professionals desire some form of remote work, according to a FlexJobs survey. This preference for flexibility, isn't just about convenience: it boosts employee satisfaction.
• The Productivity Paradox: A 2023 Owl Labs study throws a curveball- 67% of managers believe their companies will be changing remote work policies within the next year, despite 79% managers reporting their teams are more productive when working remotely. This disconnect highlights a potential clash between employee desires and managerial perceptions of productivity.

The Power of Culture, and the Challenge of Distance:

Building a strong company culture- defined by shared values, purpose, and a sense of belonging- is crucial for employee engagement. Here's the good news: a Gallup poll found that highly engaged employees are 21% more profitable, highlighting the financial advantage of a positive work environment. However, fostering this culture, in a hybrid setting requires intentional effort.

Building the Gap: From Scattered to Strong Teams:

• Communication is Key: A PWC survey identified ineffective communication as a major barrier to success, with 80% of employees citing it as a problem. This becomes even more critical in a hybrid environment. Companies need to prioritize clear, consistent communication across various channels- video conferencing, instant messaging, and a central information hub - to ensure everyone feels informed and connected.
• Beyond the Lecture: Meetings are a cornerstone of collaboration. However, the traditional "talking head" format often leaves remote participants feeling disengaged. By incorporating video-conferencing for better interaction, utilizing breakout rooms for brainstorming, and encouraging active participation through polls, companies can create a more inclusive and engaging meeting experience.
• Building Bridges, Not Walls: Physical distance shouldn't hinder team spirit. Regular virtual team-building activities, in-person retreats, and social events strengthen bonds and create shared experiences. A study by Remo found that 83% of companies report improved global perspective as the most significant benefit of virtual team building activities. Global Workplace Analytics report revealed that 72% of companies believe virtual team building activities foster increased diversity and creativity. A study by Queens University found that team-building retreats can improve team cohesion by up to 50%. Kenexa High Performance Institute suggests that employee who participate in retreats are more likely to be engaged and satisfied with their jobs.

Culture by Design, Not by Chance:

• Revisit and Reinforce: Company values and mission statements often gather dust on a shelf. Revisit these core principles to ensure they resonate with the hybrid work environment. Your company's culture shapes the employee experience-for better or for worst.
• Celebrating Success: Recognition is a powerful motivator. Celebrate milestones and achievements for both in-office and remote employees. Culture is the way you communicate, behave, celebrate and coach performance in workplace whether you work in-person, remote or hybrid.
• Learning Without Walls: Invest in a mix of online and in-person training sessions to equip all employees with the skills they need to succeed and stay connected to company's mission.

Engagement: Fueling the Engine:

• Focus on Outcome: Micromanagement is the enemy of autonomy and engagement. A survey by Trinity Solutions found that 85% of people reported their morale was negatively impacted by micromanagement, and 71% people felt it interfered with their job performance. Set clear goals based on measurable outcomes, not just physical presence in the office. Trust you team to deliver results, regardless of their location.
• Feedback is Key: Strengthen employee engagement with continuous constructive feedback. Gallup data shows that 80% of employees who say they have received meaningful feedback in the past week are fully engaged. With hybrid employees have: clear communication, frequent check-ins, and inclusive practices that bridge the physical gap in fostering connections and belonging. Leverage the various technologies available today: chats, video conferencing, allows individuals to collaborate effectively.
• Empowerment is Empowering: Give employees ownership of their work and encourage them to take initiatives. this fosters a sense of accomplishment, trust, and ultimately, a more engaged workforce.

The Road to High Fives:

The hybrid and back-to-work environment presents a unique opportunity to create a more flexible, productive, and engaging work experience. However, bridging the gap between employees desires and company practices requires significant effort. By embracing a culture of clear communication, inclusive practices, and a focus on employee well-being, companies can transform scattered teams into thriving units, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose that transcends physical location. The statistics paints a picture of workforce yearning for flexibility and a leadership that needs to adapt to meet those needs. The question remains: are we doing enough to create a high five moment for our teams, or are we still hungover from the challenges of the past?