A Hybrid Remote Work Schedule That Actually Works

As companies start to introduce more versatility in work models and cultures, it may be difficult to find one that works best for you. With technological advancement and all the available software and tools on the Internet, it has become a lot easier for teams to work from anywhere in the world and still stay connected. This means more hybrid work styles and flexible work schedules. 

In this post, we will go over:

• The three different work models 
• The different types of hybrid work models 
• How to create a hybrid remote schedule (that actually works)

The Three Different Work Models 

1. In-person work schedule

This type of schedule requires the entire team to work from the office at all times, usually consisting of a fixed 9-5 schedule with a one-hour lunch break. An in-person work schedule is most fitted for teams who require more hands-on discussions and interpersonal communication.

2. Remote work schedule

The team works from home or remotely from different locations. There is no physical office, and team members can meet up in person at coffee shops or coworking spaces when necessary. Teams that are constantly on-the-go, or with employees who are all across the world would usually have a remote work schedule.  

3. Hybrid work schedule 

Combining the elements of in-person and remote, a hybrid work schedule allows team members to alternate between working remotely and working in the office. A more flexible hybrid work schedule means employees can choose when they would like to come into the office, whereas a more structured hybrid work schedule will have fixed days for working remotely v.s. in the office.

How to Create a Hybrid Remote Work Schedule (that actually works)

When creating your ideal work schedule, it’s important to take note of your working style. Take some time to figure out what works best for you and what work schedule gives you the best output. To create a hybrid remote work schedule that actually works, you should first consider the different types of hybrid work schedules. Yes, there is more than one.

Flexible Hybrid Work Model

• Employees choose their work location and hours based on their day’s priorities

Fixed Hybrid Work Model

• Employer decides when and where employees can work remotely or in the office

Office-first Hybrid Work Model

• Employees are expected to work in the office but can choose to work remotely a few days each week

Remote-first Hybrid Work Model

• Employees mostly work from home but may meet up once in a while at a collaborative workspace (i.e. coworking space) when necessary

There are pros and cons of each type of hybrid work model and it may take some trial and error to figure out what works best for you. It is important for both employers and employees to be transparent and open about work preferences. For example, notify your team members when you will be in the office by setting a simple “in the office” status on your work channel. If you are someone who enjoys collaboration and team interactions, you might want to go into the office when everyone else is. 

Implement consistency: Having a flexible hybrid work model might be great for spontaneity and having the freedom to determine your schedule, but studies have shown that a consistent work schedule can increase productivity. Though the two may seem like contrasting values, it is actually important to understand the relationship between consistency and flexibility, and know how to balance the two. For example, setting a goal of completing 2 projects throughout 20 hours of work each week, but keeping the flexibility of when and where to work (i.e. 10 hours from home, 10 hours in the office).

Measuring performance: Be open to experimenting with different work schedules and finding one that best suits you and your team through proper performance measurement and evaluation. Is your team most productive when everyone is in the office? Does your team perform better individually at home? Are your online meetings more efficient than your in-person ones? Asking yourself these questions and measuring performance will help you to create an effective hybrid remote work schedule.

Key Highlights

Now that you are more familiar with the three main work models and the various ways you can implement hybrid culture into your work model, it’s time to create your own hybrid remote work schedule that works best for you and your team! 

Some tips mentioned: 

• Be transparent and open
• Implement consistency
• Measure performance

‍Read more about the benefits of a hybrid work model and what to avoid when creating your own. Good luck!