1. Less Time & Money Spent Commuting

In a Gallup study of more than 140,000 U.S. employees, reduced commute time ranked No. 1 on the list of hybrid work benefits. It’s no wonder. After more than a year’s relief from bumper-to-bumper traffic and paying through the nose at the pump, workers are in no rush to get back to a long and stressful daily commute.

Not only will a reduced commute keep your current employees happier, but it could tip the scales in your favor when recruiting, too.

“The time saved in getting ready and commuting is the best thing about hybrid working… Plus, I feel more productive and enjoy the change in scenery from day to day.”
— Sarah P. | Senior Web Designer

2. Greater Flexibility & Work-Life Balance

Everyone is busy, with competing commitments outside of work. A hybrid work model allows employees to arrange their schedules in a way that works best—and reduces stress.

In a nationally representative sample of more than 8,000 remote-capable employees, 71% cited improved work-life balance as the biggest advantage of hybrid work, followed closely by more efficient time use. Most also reported less burnout.

Employees with less stress perform better, hands down. A hybrid work setup also allows for adaptability during life’s interruptions. Once, employees had to miss a day waiting for a repair technician or keeping an eye on a sick child. With a hybrid arrangement, they can shift to at-home work without missing a beat (or a deadline).

“Adaptability is the biggest advantage of hybrid working… If my child gets sick, or I have a home repair emergency, I can easily change locations without delaying the projects I’m working on.”
— Justine H. | Digital Marketing Director

3. Increased Productivity

Many employers were surprised by the productivity increase when their employees went remote during the early part of the pandemic. This effect eventually waned in many organizations with the onset of screen fatigue and isolation.

A hybrid work model provides a balanced experience that lets employees play to their strengths. No two employees work the same, after all—some are more productive working alone from home, while others get an energy (and productivity) boost from being around others in the office.

“The change of environment from home to office helps productivity… It really helps you get out of any ruts you’re stuck in. Working remotely also decreases some distractions.”
— Brier M. | Web Designer

 

“Having Monday to focus on a project makes coming into the office feel better… You’ve started the week already and have a groove going.”
— Levi M. | Director of Development

4. Balance of Deep Focus Time & Creative Collaboration

There is no substitute for the buzz of an in-person creative brainstorming session or the spark of ideas from a spontaneous chat around the office coffee pot. Many problems get solved in a two-minute sidebar conversation that would have taken half a dozen emails to resolve.

But there are also times to buckle down and get work done. An impromptu stop by a desk can throw off someone’s rhythm and concentration, costing precious time getting back in the groove. It takes most people 23 minutes to recover from a distraction.

Hybrid working allows for deep concentration and focus on solo tasks, without sacrificing the energetic collaboration of the office.

“A hybrid model helps us work smarter and with intention… Our team members have focus tasks they work on Mondays and Fridays at home, and then handle tasks that require collaboration during the midweek in the office.”
— Cassandra B. | Creative Director

5. Healthy Company Culture & Relationships

No man is an island, as the saying goes. Humans are social creatures, and extended isolation leads to burnout and reduced well-being.

In the Gallup study, respondents expressed their need for connection alongside their desire for flexibility and a reduced commute. They reported it was easier to connect with their team and company culture in person.

Breakroom chats, team lunches and shared jokes help build relationships, a supportive culture and an uplifting work environment. Some things simply can’t be replicated with a screen as a barrier.

At the same time, introverted team members may find too much office camaraderie overwhelming rather than invigorating. Time spent in the comfort of their home environment can help them recharge.

“It’s nice to start and end the week in my own environment… But it’s also nice to see my coworkers and collaborate!”
— Ryan T. | Web Developer