Hybrid working tips: a few years ago, I am sure many of us would not have been searching for this. How things have evolved. Rightly so, we adapt, stay agile and continue to drive productivity. The hybrid working model has a balanced argument on its use and here we will uncover 4 effective hybrid working tips to protect your mind.
1. Clear communication is key
As simple as clear communication may seem, often it is highly overlooked and potentially even taken for granted. We need to account for both verbal and non-verbal forms of communication, more so since in our hybrid working environment, colleagues are either physically or virtually present, or even split between the two.
There are several different channels to communicate, hence it is crucial we select the most appropriate medium for the task and account for our attendees’ external circumstances. Whilst being mindful of this fact, we must equally embrace everyone’s views and allow them to be shared openly. Clear messaging ultimately drives efficiency.
Aim to have effective two-way communication.
The benefits of hybrid working allows meetings, training and webinars to be recorded allowing colleagues to revisit the content at a later date and at their own pace.
If communication is not clear, we should feel empowered to appropriately challenge to bring positive change. Not to worry, if you don’t feel ready – use and apply our FREE public speaking checklist in any setting.
Equally, benefits exist with face-to-face interactions when maximising the hybrid working model, which includes; rapport building, quickly being able to action “colleague dependant” tasks when they are in close proximity, efficient team trust-building and transparency.
Remember to take ownership of clear communication and utilise the power of your voice, as helping others indirectly helps yourself and will protect your mind.
2. Implement healthy boundaries
To help protect your mind whilst hybrid working, you must set healthy boundaries between your personal and professional lives. Here is a breakdown of a few activities you can implement today:
- Allocate time to exercise, spend time in nature
- Define emergency items that are business-critical to address after you have logged off for the day
- Take breaks to split your screen time, rest your eyes – protect your mind
- Have a clear working environment – limit distractions
- Avoid taking on too many activities – effectively manage workload
- Consciously aim not to talk about work after working hours
All these simple changes can be implemented within your hybrid working lifestyle to prevent burnout and maximise productivity, without feeling extremely overwhelmed.
Related post: The Top Benefits of Exploring the Deep Connection Between Nature and Our Mental Health
3. Support each other – team unity
To be fully successful as an individual contributor, effective team collaboration is required when face-to-face and remote, hence embracing hybrid working.
Take opportunities to check in with colleagues above and beyond work-related items. Our mental health status is not always easily recognisable. Fostering open conversations allows for a stronger team to be built which can be achieved in a hybrid working model. This includes looking out for burnout.
Signs of burnout:
- Easily frustrated
- Drop-in self-belief
- Demotivation
- Constantly tired
- Withdrawn behaviour
Identify meetings and workshops which can be completely in-person and digital as this will enforce rationale for both mediums independently, depending on the agenda and objectives, to name a few factors to consider.
Scope your colleagues’ working styles, patterns and play to their strengths whilst also appreciating their personal commitments.
4. Protect your mind
The element of protecting your mind can be frequently overlooked as we can often be in constant overdrive, ticking off to-do list items and neglecting our personal state. As mentioned above, connect and support others, and use this opportunity to express your concerns in a safe environment.
Alternatively, utilise journaling to document your experience. There are several benefits, to learn more read here.
Journaling can help with understanding stress factors and uncover tactics to overcome them.
A hybrid working model should allow greater flexibility to allocate time to support your mental health; walks in nature, screentime breaks and exercise/meditation instead of commuting.
If you are finding this is not the case, take a step back and assess why this may the case and the possible trigger factors.
Hybrid working tips FAQ:
Tips to maintain productivity in a hybrid working model
Maintaining productive whilst practising in a hybrid model of working is at the core for many. Utilise the following tips to achieve this:
- Prioritise activities periodically based on timelines
- Champion open & safe communication
- Recognise skillset boundaries and lean on colleagues’ strengths
- Effective time management skills
- Define what success looks like
Factors to consider when setting up a home office for remote work
Consider the following elements when setting up your home office:
- Appropriate location
- Add a sense of privacy
- Invest in comfort
- Keep things clean and organised
- Evaluate natural light sources
Benefits of hybrid working
Additional benefits of hybrid working include: higher morale for colleagues due to greater flexibility in planning the working week, the opportunity to increase productivity by staying focused without ‘colleague discussion’ background noise and economical savings regarding transportation costs.
Disadvantages of hybrid working
Yes, there are always two sides to every coin. Whilst we have focused on the various benefits, let’s also shed light on the cons of hybrid working. These include challenges with virtual team rapport building, burnout, real-time response (relying on technology) and face-to-face creativity is difficult to truly replicate – yet possible to a certain degree.
What are your thoughts on hybrid working? – let us know in the comments below!
