Webex defines the Hybrid Work Model as: “a flexible work model that supports a blend of in-office, remote, and on-the-go workers. It offers employees the autonomy to choose to work wherever and however they are most productive.” This model is not new. In fact, a lot of companies have adopted this work model pre-pandemic. These were mostly small and agile SMEs who could afford to allow their employees the flexibility of remote work.

However, a lot of big companies have followed suit. One notable example is Airbnb, which announced in April that they are allowing their employees to “live and work anywhere—while collaborating in a highly coordinated way.” If you haven’t yet, here are 5 tips to make the business case around adopting the hybrid work model:

1. Set Expectations
If you plan to adopt hybrid work, set extremely clear expectations on deliverables and work quality. This is the time to use your KPIs and SLAs. Everyone in the company, top to bottom, must understand the level of quality expected of the work they turn in. Also, specific guidelines on allowable time for remote work. Make sure that these expectations and guidelines are communicated to everyone in the organization.

2. Be Ready For Pushback
Traditionally, work is done in the office so that managers can “monitor” an employee’s productivity. Therefore, one of the biggest concerns for employers regarding hybrid work is that remote workers will “slack off” or under deliver. But studies have already debunked this myth. Data has shown that even during pre-pandemic times, remote workers were 77% more productive and were less likely to be absent from work. While a huge part of the organization will readily embrace hybrid work and the flexibility that comes with it, there will be apprehensions re: management and collaboration. Open your doors to communication and allow everyone to voice their concerns through the proper channels. This gives employers the opportunity to alleviate worries and ease employee (or management) concerns.

3. Have Policies In Place
Your policies must be concise – meaning short, and straightforward, with little room for assumptions and confusion. Don’t let people guess what they can or can’t do. Your policy should be short enough that the salient points are easy to remember and just long enough to be able to provide some explanation for the decision. Focus on the benefits and don’t bury the policy in words. Take Airbnb’s example: “you can live and work in over 170 countries for up to 90 days a year in each location. Everyone will still need a permanent address for tax and payroll purposes, but we’re excited to give you this level of flexibility.”

4. Be Transparent
Be transparent with the company’s goals. Airbnb’s April announcement wasn’t just a move to adopt the hybrid work model but a key part of their talent management strategy. They were clear about hiring and retaining the best talent and their hybrid work policy was a brilliant and strategic move.

Has your company adopted the hybrid work model yet? What is your hybrid work policy? Tell us about it in the comments. Remember to work smart and be a blessing to someone today. Stay safe and healthy!

Written by Jaie O. TheHelp