There has been a lot published since the pandemic on the benefits of remote work compared to in-office work. There is also more conversation about asynchronous work – when employees aren’t expected to be online or in the office at the same time. Depending on your preference, you can find statistics that suggest one is “better” than the other.
What most can agree on is that work has a new dynamic in hybrid environments. The challenge is how to decide when and why to physically come into the office. Teams need to shift to more intentional planning that is right for them.
Based on reading and conversations, I think we might be asking the wrong questions.
My Perspective
To determine the optimum solution for our teams, we may want to dig deeper into where and how and when team members do their best work.
Understanding these conditions can provide the best hybrid work solution for the group. Here are three dimensions to consider:
Energy – Introverts vs. Extraverts – Understanding what gives and drains energy for each team member can help plan the right amount and mix of live group sessions (online or in person). If the group is full of extraverts, they will gain energy from live meetings. However, the introverts will become drained. The key is to find the right balance of live (in person or virtual) engagement for both.
Productivity – Early Birds vs. Night Owls – Similar to energy levels, team members are “at their best” during different times of day. Traditional work leans to favor those most productive in the morning and afternoon, leaving those at their best in the evening behind. Taking stock of when each team member is at their best and enabling them to work during those hours vs. others brings their best to the team.
Output – Type of Work – Different teams and team members do different types of work. Programming and strategy may need high levels of work time on their own to accomplish. In contrast, a team of project managers may need more regular contact with groups of people to ensure the work is flowing through the system as planned. Adding this dimension to the work plan can ensure the right mix of group and individual work times.
Your Turn
Is your team struggling to determine the right mix of in office and remote work?
Do different team members work best at different times of day?
Could this framework help provide the foundation for a healthy team discussion?