As vaccinations offer hope and the threat of COVID-19 eases, many businesses that have operated remotely now face a new challenge—deciding if the traditional office model still fits.
Some companies are returning to full-time, in-office work, while others plan to stay remote. Both extremes come with drawbacks. Employees who thrived at home may struggle to readjust to office life, while those who need face-to-face interaction or find home distracting may seek new jobs.
Because neither option works for everyone, many businesses are turning to a hybrid model that balances flexibility with collaboration.
What Is a Hybrid Work Model?
In its purest sense, a hybrid work model merges traditional office-based work with remote work opportunities. This model is implemented in one of two ways. Creating a schedule in which employees spend alternate days or shifts working in-office and at home. Or, allowing employees who prefer to work remotely to do so permanently while welcoming those who favor in-person work back to the office.
Though hybrid work models are not a brand new concept, interest in this workplace scenario grew exponentially in the past 16 months. Even though hybrid scenarios seem like the perfect solution for many organizations, there are a lot of things to consider before putting this model into practice.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Hybrid Work Models
Hybrid work models certainly have many benefits, including a better work-life balance for staff, increased productivity, greater employee safety, lower overhead costs, and the ability to hire talented employees from outside a business’ locality.
That being said, there are many drawbacks to this model such as an increased reliance on technology, a lack of in-person team- and client-building opportunities, and the potential for longer working hours as a result of conflicting on-site and remote work schedules.
However, there is a way to effectively resolve some of the drawbacks of the hybrid workplace model: Coworking office space.
Make Your Hybrid Model Work with Coworking Office Space
Coworking spaces offer an ideal solution for small businesses adopting a hybrid work model. Instead of paying for half-empty office space, companies can save money with a pay-per-use setup.
Employees can keep the flexibility of remote work while gaining access to a professional space when needed. They can focus without distractions, collaborate in person, host team-building events, conduct interviews or reviews, and meet clients face-to-face—all without the cost of a full-time lease.
Even before the pandemic, it was clear that the traditional workplace model may have run its course. Now with coworking office spaces like those offered by HeadRoom, small businesses, start-ups and solopreneurs can blend the best parts of office-based work and remote work to create a successful hybrid workplace model. While some corporations and large companies continue to struggle with the office environment of the past, small businesses can easily invest in the future. To see our shared office space options in the Philadelphia area in person, contact us today to schedule a tour.