There are many work models nowadays; with the job market continually shifting towards remote work, even traditional businesses relying on office workers are rethinking their approach.
In truth, there’s no universal recommendation, but a hybrid work model may be a good idea as it will allow your business to attract a wider away of professionals. Keep in mind that, if your business is employing people from anywhere, you should also consider using various contract types.
Let’s take a look at the four most common types of work models and what makes each of them successful.
1. Traditional Employees
Traditional employees or in-office workers are the workforces every business that’s been around for a while is familiar with. This is the oldest work model, meaning that some employees (as well as some managers) may be reluctant to give it up.
In the digital times of today, however, relying merely on the office work of the past is bound to spell doom for the business in the long run. Since people are increasingly looking for more flexible jobs, office workers should be given the same privilege.
You can start by using an employee timesheet template and add additional innovations little by little.
The positive aspects don’t have to suffer any changes. E.g., there’s nothing wrong with face-to-face communication, instant access to resources and first-hand advice.
2. Hybrid Teams
Basically, there are six hybrid work models companies can pick from, as follows:
- Partially remote work, with flexible office space – no permanent offices; rented flex space used for periodic collaboration (but not connectivity)
- Almost entirely on premises – limited remote work, large office space the majority of managers and workers
- Partially remote work, multiple hubs – multiple offices with the workforce dispersed among them
- Partially remote work, large office space – the majority of managers and workers spend most, but not all, of their time at the office
- Almost entirely off premises – mostly remote work with no office space
- Multiple microhubs – management and employees are dispersed across small microhubs located in different cities (or countries, depending on the scope of your business operations)
You can pick any model that works for you, but if you’re combining office and remote work, make sure to direct employees to be on the same page during onboarding. Don’t skip this step! Onboarding is the first crucial moment for all employees to get to know each other, as well as business processes and company culture.
3. Remote Workers
Remote work is attracting more and more people by the minute. Before the COVID-19 onset, remote work was popular among freelancers and digital nomads for the most part. Nowadays, even traditional workers are hoping to transition to a more flexible work schedule.
That’s why businesses are turning to remote work, and fast at that. However, keep in mind that even though many people want to work remotely, that doesn’t necessarily mean that they know the ropes.
It may sound obvious, but make sure to create strong passwords and change them regularly while at the same time educating your workforce on this matter.
4. Digital Nomads
Digital nomadism is on the rise, so if you’re employing some of them, you should consider offering a couple of specific perks.
One of them is different contract types. Digital nomads need to handle more responsibilities than U.S. workers, notably FBAR filing and different taxation systems.
With more and more countries offering digital nomad visas aiming to attract capital and with the global uncertainty that’s spreading like wildfire, hiring digital nomads may be a good idea, as these people are adept at weathering crises.
Don’t forget that some digital nomads hold dual citizenship or have foregone their U.S. citizenship (normally, for tax reasons), so reconsider the contract types and additional perks.
Key Takeaways
Regardless of the work models you pick, think it over. Combining different work models through a hybrid model is a great idea, but don’t rush things. Different businesses have different specific tasks, so plan ahead.
The best thing about hybrid work models is that you can switch between them when the need arises. And remote workers are quite skilled at picking up!
However, don’t forget to offer the latest tech, provide readily accessible learning solutions, and keep all employees aligned with business goals. Pay particular attention to frontline employees as they customarily get neglected. Simplify their daily tasks by offering modern apps and tools and train the managers! People managing frontline teams usually lack first-hand field experience.
Finally, no matter which work model you pick, don’t forget to ask your employees about their preferences. This is best done by applying regular anonymous feedback, as anonymity usually guarantees honesty.
Even if you think you know your employees’ preferences, don’t skip this step! Preferences change alongside the times, so you may be surprised to learn that some people would rather change their work model. Ask away!