At Foundever®, we know a thing or two about hybrid and remote working models and how to find the right balance with what’s good for employees and businesses alike. What we’ve discovered working with companies of all sizes over the last 40 years is that the office continues to serve as an important hub for social interaction, professional development and the enrichment of organizational culture. We also know that the autonomy and improved work-life balance afforded by remote work are increasingly valued by today’s workforce, underscoring the importance of flexibility in employment today.
A hybrid working model brings the best of both worlds by supporting employee wellbeing and business resilience as well as boosting company performance. A survey of 5,000 employees by Gartner found that only a third of employees (36%) working 40 hours a week on-site were considered high performers. However, when companies transitioned to a model offering significant flexibility, allowing employees to choose their work location, timing and hours, the percentage of high-performing employees jumped significantly to 55%. This shows that flexibility in the workplace can lead to greater engagement and productivity.
The Foundever hub concept is how we address the challenges and realize the benefits of taking a hybrid working model approach to CX delivery. Each venue operates on the principle that associates will spend most of their time working from home but would also be required to spend time on-site — whether that time is taken up directly serving a client; with training, coaching and development; or with team building or group activities aimed at strengthening company culture or employee engagement.
The emergence of flexible hybrid environments illustrates how technology and a commitment to employee experience can transcend traditional workspace boundaries, unlocking unprecedented levels of engagement, scalability and performance. These are our proven tips to navigate and thrive in these dynamic working models.
Remote and hybrid working models tip 1. Embrace technological enablement
The cornerstone of any successful hybrid or remote working model is the technology that facilitates it. Secure, cloud-based platforms ensure that teams remain connected, collaborative and productive regardless of their physical location. By adopting a virtual-first approach, organizations can provide their teams with the tools they need to excel, building a culture of innovation and agility.
Remote and hybrid working models tip 2. Nurture cultural engagement and flexibility
Adaptability is key to maintaining a deep connection with your workforce. Hybrid models offer the flexibility to work from various locations, including home environments and global hybrid venues. This adaptability supports business continuity and promotes a sense of belonging among employees, enhancing their engagement and dedication to the company’s mission.
Remote and hybrid working models tip 3. Use a global talent network
By not limiting your talent pool to a specific geographic location, you can attract and retain top talent from around the world. This global approach to talent acquisition ensures diversity and access to a wide range of skills and languages, significantly enriching the customer experience and driving innovation within your teams.
Remote and hybrid working models tip 4. Prioritize employee experience
A positive employee experience is directly linked to an enhanced customer experience. By prioritizing work-life balance and offering flexible working options, companies can boost employee morale and productivity. Recognizing and addressing the needs of your workforce in a hybrid model demonstrates a commitment to their wellbeing and professional growth.
Remote and hybrid working models tip 5. Ensure business continuity and resiliency
The ability to work from any approved location provides a buffer against disruptions, ensuring that business operations continue smoothly. This level of flexibility allows for quick adjustments to work arrangements in response to changing circumstances, ensuring that customer support remains uninterrupted.
Remote and hybrid working models tip 6. Secure data and stay connected
Combining digital security with collaborative tools is essential for a safe and efficient work environment. This helps protect sensitive information while enabling employees to communicate and collaborate effectively, whether they’re working on-site or remotely.
Remote and hybrid working models tip 7. Adapt to changing business needs
Hybrid and remote working models are designed to be flexible, allowing businesses to scale operations up or down based on demand. This agility is crucial for responding to seasonal spikes, campaigns or changes in contact volumes, ensuring that customer needs are met with the right resources at the right time.
Remote and hybrid working models pave the way for engagement and productivity
At Foundever, we wholeheartedly believe that the use of remote and hybrid working models that prioritize the employee experience are central to the future of work. These models not only cater to the evolving needs of employees but also ensure that companies remain resilient, adaptable and competitive.
Reimagine traditional and remote-working CX models with hybrid delivery capabilities. Learn more about our hybrid solutions to support CX everywhere.