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How to Make the Hybrid Model Work for Your Business

July 12, 2022
4 MIN READs
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When the pandemic took the world by storm, what began as a flexible work arrangement to accommodate business needs in times of crisis slowly evolved to include work from home (WFH) and remote work options with the occasional in-office attendance. As these became the norm, employee expectations of flexible and agile working eventually gave rise to the “hybrid work model” that’s shaping the future of work, as we see today.

One hallmark of the hybrid work model is flexibility—and finding the balance or right blend of in-office and work from home or remote work for your employees means having the right solutions to ensure a seamless transition. But first, let’s clarify the difference between the key terms: remote work vs working from home and why it matters.

Remote Work vs Working from Home: What’s the Difference & Why It Matters?

Remote Work vs Working from Home banner
Many people would say, “Isn’t it the same?”. While the terms “working from home” (WFH) and “remote work” may be used interchangeably, there are distinct differences between the two.

Let’s explore the differences between remote work and WFH, why businesses should switch from a temporary WFH mindset—and start thinking of WFH and remote work as more permanent solutions—and why it matters to your business.

But first, here’s a snapshot of the differences between working from home and remote work.
 Working From HomeRemote Work
Description
DescriptionAny employee working outside of a physical office—but only fromhome.Employees can work remotely from basically anywhere—from home, acafé, amotelroom, or another country.
WorkEnvironment
WorkEnvironmentA well-lit workstation that includes an ergonomic office chair,desk,computer,and excellent connection to the network.Remote workers often have to create their own work environmentandbeable towork productively on the go.
Adaptability
AdaptabilityIt takes time for adjustment as it poses a significant changefroman employee’s normal routine and pace of work. Some businessesalsoofferflexibility to pick and choose WFH days as needed.Employees who work remotely often need a specific set ofabilities,skills, andresources that allow them to work from anywhere. They need to beadaptable,proactive at communication, self-disciplined and have incredibletimemanagementskills.
WorkspaceConfiguration
WorkspaceConfigurationEmployees have a practical workstation to use—one that allowsthemtoperformtheir day-to-day tasks unimpeded and communicate with other teammemberseffectively.Remote working offers a lot more freedom and flexibility—butthisalsomeansthey don’t necessarily have the safety and security of aworkspace,desk, andsecure network connection to rely on. Employees themselves needtoensure theyhave it.
KeyAdvantage
KeyAdvantageMany workplaces offer WFH as an option for employees to givethemmorefreedomand flexibility to maintain their work-life balance, beproductive,andworktheir best in an environment that meets their needs.Employees have the freedom to create their own work environmentandestablish awork lifestyle that best suits them.

Why Adopt a Permanent “WFH” or “Remote Work” Mindset?

Research shows that flexibility in terms of work hours and location is increasingly important for businesses to cater to—particularly for the millennial workforce. WFH or remote work opportunities promote greater work-life balance, increased productivity, loyalty, and work satisfaction.

According to research, reasons why WFH or remote work boosts employees’ productivity include:

Callout blue
68%
Fewer interruptions
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68%
A quiet work environment
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66%
A more comfortable workplace
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63%
More focused time

Why “WFH” or “Remote Work” Models Matter to Companies Like Yours?

According to Gartner research, 48% of employees will work remotely at least some of the time in the post-pandemic world, compared with 30% before.

For companies looking to scale their business up (or down), hiring remote workers offers a lot of potential—while also lowering overhead and office costs. Offering employees the option to work remotely can open more possibilities in who you hire—as companies are not limiting their ability to find talented workers by geographical location. This also means that businesses would be more agile and have a more sustainable structure in the future—with minimum costs or setbacks when the next crisis strikes.


The Future of Work is Hybrid

Busines meeting in office with glass panel windows

Hybrid work is here to stay. Organisations should focus their attention on the agile worker experience whilst also covering the needs of the hybrid employee interacting with the corporate workplace by digitally enhancing the office collaboration spaces.

Designing the Future of Work with Ricoh Solutions

If you’re ready to take the next step and embrace the human-centric hybrid work environment, Ricoh can help support your transition. Through our innovative Hybrid workplace solutions, your organisation can make the switch as seamless as possible—helping you stay connected with your employees regardless of where they are.

Get in touch with us to discuss the possibilities Ricoh can offer your company today.


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