Hybrid working is here to stay, bringing huge potential to transform productivity.
Before the pandemic, 92% of companies surveyed by McKinsey thought their business models would change because of digitalisation, signaling the beginning of a workstyle shift we now see as permanent. At the same time, in a flexible working study, 67% of leaders related an increase of 20% in productivity to flexible working practices.
As the structure of work changed, did management practices keep pace?
The challenge today is to find a management style that will unlock this boost in productivity.
Using the wrong management approach with hybrid working teams risks triggering significant people-related challenges.
Working away from the team base can cause isolation and anxiety among team members, which can harm motivation levels. The homeworking environment can involve the distractions of family pressures and commitments. A poorly managed hybrid working setup can bring with it hyper-connectivity, an always-on culture, and video meeting fatigue, potentially leading to digital burnout and health issues due to poor eating and sleeping habits
1. Cultivate a holistic sense of purpose
2. Lead by example
3. Prioritise wellbeing through flexibility
Wherever possible, allow your people to fit their tasks and deliverables around their lifestyle. If needed, offer them the flexibility to do the school drop off and collection or let them destress with a lunchtime run or cycle ride.
4. Use collaboration to break down barriers
5. Set the scene for your teams
Explain the connections between what your people do and the wider corporate goals to give meaning to projects. Set sensible expectations around how long a task will take and make sure your teams focus their work to achieve this. Dedicate time to coaching and mentoring employees, emphasising personal development over a singular focus on tasks.