After a long remote work routine, companies are finally calling their employees back to the office. However, many others are starting hybrid work models to handle business operations at a reasonable cost.

We all know that the past two years have adversely impacted the workers’ psyche. It is changing the work expectations for all involved parties. In this scenario, leaders must find reliable ways to implement hybrid work models to ensure desired productivity levels. In addition, it requires setting up a dedicated strategy and technique to maintain coordination between hybrid working teams.

Below we have listed critical trends from experts at Global Investment Strategies to implement hybrid work models more effectively.

Consider employee priorities for work-life balance.

After the covid-19 pandemic, employees have redefined their preferences for work and personal life. In comparison, before the pandemic, almost 47% of employees these days are putting more emphasis on family life instead of personal life. Moreover, 53% have prioritized health and well-being over their work routines. In this scenario, leaders need to understand the expectations of their team members and redesign work schedules with a healthy work-life balance. On the other hand, companies that follow positive work cultures with flexible routines are likely to retain talented employees.

Establishing a link between employee expectations and leadership

As per a recent survey, almost 54% of managers feel that their leadership is not establishing touch with the employees. Instead, they feel stuck between changing employee expectations and demanding leadership decisions. For instance, almost 73% of employees are willing to proceed ahead with flexible work routines in the long run; however, 50% of the leaders need employees to attend the full office time. Therefore, managers must understand both sides of the situation and find ways to clear the gap. In addition, they need to ensure desired productivity levels without losing employees’ trust.

Leaders need to create engaging office experiences.

Creating engaging and encouraging office routines is essential to motivate employees to return to the office. For example, 51% of the surveyed employees following the hybrid work model for the past year are now looking for fully remote work opportunities. 38% of employees stated that the most difficult part of remote work is the challenge of knowing when and why they need to attend the office. When you are willing to bring the office, making them feel included and engaged in office activities is essential. Make their commute to the office an incredible experience so they can always stay tuned.

Flexible work doesn’t mean expecting your employee always be available.

The most prominent challenge employees have faced with remote or flexible work routines is losing control over time. The managers organize meetings at odd times, and the employees fail to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Leaders need to stop considering their employees on duty 24×7. Instead, it is better to set some boundaries for work and let them survive through other life responsibilities.

These simple tips and tricks may help you to maintain healthy work routines for employees in this new normal.