Companies and employees now embrace a hybrid work setup that involves not going to the office every day. Here’s what you have to know about it and why some people think that it’s a great idea. 

During the peak of COVID-19, companies were either forced to close or operate remotely, which led people to work from home. In fact, 72% of companies in the Philippines operated remotely in line with the community quarantines. But as the lockdowns eased, adjustments were made in the new normal—including the introduction of hybrid work setups which 74% of US companies already use. 

Given the convenience that comes with not going to the office every day, several Filipino companies, though not all, have embraced this work setup as well. In fact, a survey from Jobstreet showed that 46% of Filipinos now prefer this model. And it even reflects in their preferences when looking for a new job!

Defined as “a flexible work model that supports a blend of in-office, remote, and on-the-go workers,” a hybrid work setup gives employees the choice of working wherever and however they feel most productive. Simply put, it’s a working schedule that combines working physically in the office and working from home.

As companies in the Philippines restructure their work setup following the pandemic, we delve into the advantages of implementing a hybrid work setup for your company.

Reduces Commute Time

With Manila ranking second in terms of traffic congestion in the world, it’s no surprise that many Filipinos have lost precious hours while stuck on the road. On top of that, commuters also struggle with the rising base fare of public utility vehicles (PUVs).

By implementing a hybrid work setup, your employees can use their time to start working immediately once they clock in, instead of spending long hours on the road. What’s more, they no longer have to travel every day also allows them to save money. 

Increases Productivity and Efficiency

One of the reasons why your employees tend to work harder in a hybrid work setup is that they aim to prove that they are not slacking off. By producing good quality output, they get to show how much they can thrive in this flexible setting.

How so? In a hybrid work setup, your employees can make the most out of their flexibility by using it to find their work rhythm. Moreover, employees are encouraged to focus more on their tasks, in order to finish early. This means that office days can be directed towards accomplishing group tasks and meetings, while work-from-home (WFH) days can be a chance to focus on individual tasks. 

Lower Operating Costs 

Another advantage of the hybrid work setup is that it allows you to save some money on operating costs. Fewer office days mean that there will be no people in the office every day, thereby translating to lower electricity and water bills.

If you provide your employees with meals, you can cut costs by not having to spend on that every day. Implementing a hybrid setup also means that you don’t have to spend so much on cleaning and maintenance since the office doesn’t get cluttered as easily. In fact, some companies don’t even invest in an office, as they rent coworking spaces for monthly meetings!

Improves Work-life Balance for Employees

About 60% of workers who have tried a hybrid work setup said that their work-life balance is better. In fact, some studies have also shown that around 55% of employees have reported having lower stress levels, while around 68% believed that it has improved their physical fitness. 

And rightfully so! A hybrid work setup allows employees to balance all their responsibilities. Since Filipinos are known for being family-oriented, they can squeeze in small tasks like cooking meals and picking up their kids from school during their work hours. They also have the luxury of spending time for exercise, family time, or relaxation as soon as they clock out.

All these are something that cannot be accomplished from the office, as where they would still have to travel home before they can rest.

Keeps Everyone Healthy 

Several studies have shown how a hybrid work setup can equate to having better mental health since employees will have a better work-life balance with this setup and therefore, get a chance to work on their well-being and do the things they love after work. Plus, working from home on some days reduces paranoia about the possibility of bringing in the virus to their loved ones at home.

Aside from that, a hybrid work setup also prevents the spread of COVID-19 among colleagues. By not requiring employees to report every day, they can avoid crowds, thereby minimizing their exposure. This lessens their risk of getting sick and spreading the virus inside or within the office vicinity.

Gives Better Upskill Opportunities 

As the hybrid setup provides flexibility, it will be easier for employees to use their extra time for training and learning opportunities—without the need to take a leave of absence. It also helps that there are many accessible online courses, as well as educational programs that grant people certificates upon completion. 

Aside from the fact that this benefits the employees, given that they get to expand their knowledge and skill set, this also benefits you. Why? Because when employees improve their skills, they can do their job better. They can even share their newfound knowledge with the team so that all tasks can be completed more efficiently. Also, skilled employees that are well-taken care of are more likely to stay in the company.

These are just some benefits that come with implementing a hybrid work setup in the workplace. While the specifics can vary depending on the job and the discretion of the company, as well as the industry itself, there’s no denying how the pandemic has changed the way working…works.