Hybrid Workplaces are Here to Stay — with Profound Implications for Work and Society

Before 2020’s global pandemic, the majority of workers across the world performed nearly all their work at an employer-provided workplace. That model was upended as millions of workers were advised—and in some cases, required—to redefine the spaces in which work gets done. They created what many are calling the largest remote work experiment of all time. The results are clear: more workers than ever thought possible can work remotely.

Three (3) types of workplaces in the new world of work are forming now that we’re into Q4 of the new year, the structure of the workplace will depend on:

1. The company and the work to be done,

2. Employee needs and preferences, and

3. The beliefs and behaviors of leaders and colleagues.

Corp RE leaders and HR will need to work with business leaders to make decisions at both the strategic and individual worker level—and help the organization navigate those changes effectively. The new norm of the workplaces of tomorrow is a hybrid workplace and includes some combination of workers who:

• Work onsite at an employer facility

• Work remotely

• Offsite work (combo of onsite and remotely)

Potential implications for workers, employers, and society vary greatly across the three types of workplaces. Specific work arrangements will vary from organization to organization, but individual decisions—while setting a precedent a framework for the future; there will be a need to be able to evolve continuously in the new world of work.

See the following table for potential implications of workplaces:

Looking ahead: Companies will need to proactively utilize CRE experts to manage their hybrid workplaces instead of clinging to past approaches.

• Set your Future-of-work strategy.

• Determine the right combination of work, workplaces, and employees that are critical to involve workers.

• Communicate with workers and leverage their unique perspective as being closest to the work to develop capabilities and purposefully invest in your future workforce.

• Design inclusively. Intentionally tailor your hybrid workplaces with programs and policies, including employee wellbeing and health and safety approaches.

• Invest in the workplace. Consider where automation and technologies may help increase workplace flexibility for segments of your workforce.

Contact Corporate RE Advisory Services to assist will all of your Return to the Workplace tasks and implementation.