Converting Your Business for Hybrid Work

Tips for Creating a Hybrid Workplace

The reality is that the hard work of converting into a hybrid workplace was done when employees were sent home at the start of the pandemic about two years ago. Working from home has become the norm for most employees. However, getting the most from your team will require some extra effort. Here are some ways that you can build a successful hybrid workplace.

Supply your team with tech\

Technology is the key factor that keeps your remote team intact. It allows them to communicate and collaborate at a distance. So, invest a little to equip your team with the tech they need to stay in touch and be productive. Protect your organization’s security by supplying your team with laptops rather than allowing them to use their personal devices. This ensures that your IT department retains control over access to sensitive material and private company information.

You’ll also want to consider the type of software, productivity tools, and collaborative platforms your team can use. This includes settling on a video conferencing platform that everyone will use, as well as project management software. Check with your IT department to see if they have any preference. Essentially, having everyone trained and working on the same solutions will make for a more efficient and effective workplace.

Book in-office time

A hybrid workplace isn’t the same as a remote one. Your employees will have some on-site days but keeping track of who is in the office and when can present a challenge. You can employ various applications as a team to track and organize schedules.

Consider using a calendar that allows your team to book in-office time. A room-booking service can enable employees to book specific spaces so they can do their job or hold meetings. This ensures that everyone has a space to work and there are not too many employees at the office, which may present a health risk. It keeps everything running smoothly, which is what you need when your employees are dispersed.

Switch your office design

Create a welcoming and comfortable space for your employees to enjoy during their in-office workdays. Consider the balance between private space and collaborative space. Perhaps you can add a kitchen or cafe-type element to allow employees an area to gather and chat. You’ll also want to counter it with some private office space for employees who need to focus on their projects or presentations.

Then, you’ll need some in-between space like boardrooms to accommodate presentations and in-person meetings with your team or clients. The new trend is called flex-desking. This refers to employees’ ability to reserve desk space for the day they plan to be in the office. Gone are the days when everyone had their own desk or office. Flex-desking is a more practical way for a hybrid office to function. It makes sure that no space is wasted and that you get maximum efficiency from your office space.

Map it out

Offering your employees some directions when they arrive in-office is essential. There’s little doubt that your office will have changed over the past couple of years. Interactive maps can help your employees maneuver around the office and find their booked rooms, collaborative spaces, and even the bathrooms!

Invest in cloud storage for your team

Having cloud storage enables your employees to save their documents, files, presentations, etc. in one central space. They will be able to access their work from anywhere. Moreover, it enables multiple employees to work on the same documents, make comments, edits, and additions. It can make your team more productive and secure essential documents.

Set meeting boundaries

While most people have become accustomed to virtual meetings, you still may want to set some boundaries for your hybrid workplace. This can include details about proper behaviour or conduct when attending online meetings. You may also want to define some restrictions about when meetings can be booked.

Some workplaces or hybrid teams find that their days become full of these meetings, thus interfering with productivity. Having a designated day for virtual meetings can help your employees manage their hybrid work better.

Downsize your real estate footprint

A bonus of the hybrid workplace is that you won’t need to pay as much in real estate costs. With less staff on-site full-time, you have the freedom to let go of some leases or properties.

Alternatively, your organization may look to repurpose former office space by creating rental space for others. Whatever your organization opts to do, Michaels Global Trading can help you sell off and liquidate your office furniture. Our experienced teams have the capability to help you get rid of your used and unwanted furniture and equipment.

Converting your workplace into a hybrid one can be exciting and challenging. By following these steps, you’ll be able to successfully transition your office space into a hybrid, shared area. You’ll also be able to prepare and equip your employees with everything they need to be productive and effective whether they are in the office, on the road, or at home.

For more information about our office furniture liquidation services, call Michaels Global Trading at 1-888-902-7531 or contact us here.

‍