Hybrid and remote working models were gaining popularity before 2019, but since the pandemic, they have become a fixture of modern work life. According to McKinsey, 90% of executives plan to keep their hybrid strategies even after the health crisis subsides. While these arrangements can be polarizing for employees and employers alike, it's clear that they're here to stay. Still, many people at all organizational levels buy into common myths and misconceptions around hybrid and remote work.
To help distinguish between fact and fiction, here are the top five misconceptions we see and the truth behind them:
1. Hybrid and remote models are just temporary
Even after two years of this new normal, people still believe that hybrid and remote working models are a temporary solution. In reality, forward-thinking leaders recognize that employee preferences have changed and the global digital transformation has made it easier than ever to work from home. While some jobs require employees to come in for essential in-office tasks, offering flexible work arrangements can be a win-win for organizations and employees.
2. Working from home decreases productivity levels
The idea that work-from-home employees are less productive than in-office workers is a persistent misconception. According to Forbes, a work-from-home model can actually increase productivity up to 77%. To achieve true flexibility while maximizing the potential of your employees, it's critical to provide the tools they need to succeed and an environment built on trust and support.
3. Employers need to monitor remote workers
Many employers believe that if workers aren't physically coming into the office each day, they need to be monitored to ensure they're putting in enough time and staying on task. However, this mistrust can lead to poor employee experiences that hamper productivity and even lead to attrition. Instead, focus on the outcomes of your hybrid or remote workers and encourage them to meet goal posts rather than clock hours.
4. Without in-office employees, culture will suffer
The truth is, hybrid and remote models have no impact on your company's culture — it's the people and systems set up to help your employees succeed that matter. Just because people are working online doesn't mean they don't have the chance to build connections and collaborate with one another. Let your values and mission drive your culture as you adapt to the future.
5. Most jobs need to be accomplished on-premise
While it's true that some jobs can only be performed on company premises, not every position has in-office responsibilities. Map your employees' activities to see where there might be flexibility for hybrid or fully remote schedules.
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