Hybrid work keeps making gains, but workplace policies may not be keeping up

When COVID-19 sent many workers home and left once-bustling office space eerily empty, most people considered the work-from-home arrangement temporary. But as the pandemic dragged on, both employees and employers found plenty to like about working outside the office at least part of the time.

Hybrid arrangements seemed like the best of both worlds—the collaboration opportunities an office provides along with the flexibility of working from home. But what was once a rushed-into plan has now become permanent for many workers, meaning employers need policies to ensure fairness and guard productivity.

The strong case for hybrid

In its 2022-2023 “Hybrid Works” report, IWG, a provider of coworking and meeting spaces, says 63% of high-growth companies were using a hybrid work model. The report also quotes a study finding that 77% of employees say working closer to home is an essential consideration when looking for their next job.

IWG also says hybrid arrangements help employers retain talent because people stay longer for employers who allow hybrid schedules. Hybrid work also reduces commuting, thereby cutting carbon emissions, a factor important to many jobseekers, employees, and employers.

Hybrid advocates also point to opportunities for companies to save money by lowering overhead costs since less space is needed when fewer people are working in the office at the same time.