How to create a seamless & successful hybrid environment

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A hybrid work environment includes at least one team member teleworking. While this may sound difficult to navigate, it is not impossible. To ensure smooth

collaboration in a hybrid work environment, here are some strategies: 

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ENSURE EQUALITY FOR ALL

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Support equitable treatment for all workers, regardless of whether they are “seen” on-site or online. This will promote inclusivity and boost morale.

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Bias and favouritism are a surefire way to push your employees away! Avoid it at all costs!

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Hybrid Meetings: Equip all meeting rooms with high-quality microphones and cameras so remote employees can clearly see and hear everything.

Engagement Tools: Use breakout rooms, reactions, and polls to engage both in-person and remote participants equally.

Clear Policies: Clearly communicate that telework days are not ‘days off’ and that remote employees are just as available as on-site ones.

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OPTIMISE MEETINGS 

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Meetings are where important decisions are discussed and made. Therefore, ensuring smooth meetings with both on-site and remote workers is paramount.

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Meeting Duration: Shorten meetings by 5 minutes to allow buffers and transitions between different formats.

Meeting Materials: Share materials electronically before meetings to ensure everyone is prepared, regardless of location.

Camera Policies: Set clear guidelines on when cameras should be on, ensuring everyone is on the same page.

Audio and Visual: Invest in technology that allows teleworkers to see and hear everything happening in the room.

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TRANSPARENCY IN WORK LOCATIONS AND SCHEDULES

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Avoid scheduling clashes among your hybrid teams to reduce inefficiency and enhance productivity.

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Calendar Updates: Encourage employees to mark telework days on their calendars and use statuses like “Working Elsewhere” in Outlook and Teams. 

Signage: Include work hours in email signature to avoid scheduling conflicts.

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By following these guidelines, organisations can create an inclusive and efficient hybrid work environment where every employee feels valued and connected, regardless

of where they are working from.

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