The Tools You Need to Success in a Hybrid Workplace

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The future of work is here early, and we must embrace the latest technological innovations. Not only does this ensure a more efficient workplace and the ability to provide reliable results to customers, but it ultimately leads to happy employees.

 

The pandemic has undoubtedly transformed how the strategies highlighted above are carried out. Considering the fact that the effects of this health crisis may very well last into 2022, adapting to the future of work is crucial. 

 

This partially involves the ability to embrace a more flexible approach to work. In particular, a growing number of employees are telecommuting. What tools are essential for those who wish to work at home two or three days each week? Let us take a look at some must-have accessories and the advantages that they provide.

 

Communications Tools

 

One way to guarantee a smooth transition into a hybrid work environment involves effective communication. While this concept is certainly nothing new, choosing the appropriate utilities is nonetheless critical. 

 

Microsoft Office

Microsoft Office has represented a workplace staple for well over a decade, and its presence is just as potent within remote settings. This bundle contains a host of basic tools, and most employees are already familiar with how they function.

 

Google Drive

Google Drive has many of the same tools that Microsoft offers, except that the Drive is a live document. This is a great tool for remote teams because the edits are in real-time, so there is no need to keep emailing a document back and forth. Plus, you can add comments, make suggestions, or edits. 

 

Teamwork

Teamwork is one of the most powerful project management software solutions on the market. It provides a streamlined means of collaboration while enabling stakeholders to keep track of essential metrics at all times. Additional benefits include a user-friendly interface, excellent customer support, and the potential to monitor multiple ongoing projects. 

 

IT Tools

 

IT is another category that deserves closer attention, as these tools will help take the guesswork out of remote communications. Here are a handful of generic examples of what telecommuting can often require.

  • A hands-free headset and microphone.
  • Cutting-edge chat software [such as Slack, Zoom, and Google Hangouts]
  • A mobile-based human resources information system [HRIS]. This software allows employees to communicate with the central office, avoiding mistakes or project bottlenecks.
  • A cloud storage system.
  • IT disaster recovery solutions 

Finally, you should include a reliable VoIP service. Some of the top VoIP solutions for businesses include RingCentral, Ooma, Nextiva, Grasshopper, and Cloudtalk.io.

 

Portable Devices & The Internet of Things

 

Businesses need to appreciate how the Internet of Things [IoT] affects the workforce. With a more blended approach, one effective technique can involve integrating mobile devices into the current IT infrastructure. Mobile phones, laptops, and tablets are three common examples, as employees can utilize these devices to collaborate on virtually any type of project. Not only is this a great way to curate a more flexible brand identity, but employees will appreciate the fact that the business values their personal remote working requirements. 

 

Engagement Tools

 

A possible issue with hybrid teams is that some members can not attend physical meetings. This is when managing hybrid teams will require a slightly more innovative approach. Conferencing software is, therefore, a wise investment. Let's take a closer look at what tools are available.

 

Morning Team Meetings

These meetings are commonplace within a traditional office environment. They enable management to touch base with staff members, and they can also help address any questions that employees may have. Here are some of the most respected solutions in 2021:

  • Microsoft Teams
  • Go To Meeting
  • Skype for Business
  • ezTalks
  • StarLeaf

While these are all excellent video conferencing, it may also be wise to invest in compatible bundles that allow users to share additional information, such as statistics, infographics, and sales pipelines. 

 

Addressing the Other Side of the Coin

Now that we have taken a closer look at some of the ways in which a blended workplace can be streamlined, it is wise to address the physical environment itself. After all, hybrid means employees will come into the office sometimes. What are some of the ways managers can ensure their happiness and satisfaction within such dynamic settings?

 

Communications & Face-to-Face Transparency

 

One of the primary reasons for a low retention rate is when employees do not feel their personal needs are being addressed. This is why managers and team leaders need to foster an open communication environment. We are not only referring to one-on-one discussions in this respect. Employees should be provided with software systems that allow them to speak with their peers instantaneously. Many of the collaborative tools mentioned earlier in this article can be used to address this concern. 

 

Ergonomic Tools

 

It is wise to mention that some low-tech tools can also be used to create a more welcoming professional environment. Employees who can remain comfortable within these settings will be happier and, therefore, more productive. Modern solutions such as standing desks, anti-fatigue cushions, ergonomically designed chairs, and room dividers can all be used to achieve a greater sense of in-house support. 

 

Developing a Unique Synergy Between Old & New

 

The notion of a blended workplace will become even more relevant as we continue to move further into the future of work. This is why proactively adopting the techniques mentioned above can provide your organization with a much-needed edge. Finally, it simply makes sense if you wish to keep your employees happy and satisfied with their professional careers. 

 

The future of work is hybrid & human.  A toolset to make hybrid work well is in the greenhouse elements that are found in Beyond Happiness: How Authentic Leaders prioritize Purpose & profits for growth & impact. 
People Strategy Sessions

About the Author

Ian Carroll

Ian Carroll has been a Digital Marketing and SEO specialist for over ten years, and he currently runs Digital Funnel, which specializes in web design and SEO.

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