What is hybrid working?
Hybrid working, which blends in-office work with remote work, has become a cornerstone of modern employment, allowing flexibility and maintaining productivity.
Traditionally reserved for special circumstances, hybrid working became mainstream post-2020, allowing employees to split their time between the office and remote locations. This change has been warmly received by some areas of the workforce, particularly those businesses and workers who value flexibility and the freedom to work where they want.
Why is hybrid working so common now?
In recent times, hybrid and remote work has become a regular feature in our professional lives. Businesses continue to adapt to a change in expectations, brought about by arguably the most significant global event of the twenty-first century.
For this reason, the needs of businesses – both small and large – when it comes to office space have changed irrevocably.
What is the difference between remote working and hybrid working?
It is important to make the distinction between remote working and hybrid working.
The former involves an employee working from a location of their choice rather than an office, whereas the latter combines time at an employer’s physical space and elsewhere.
What do people think about hybrid working?
Hybrid working is favoured by many, particularly those who are able to work on a laptop and fulfil their responsibilities in this way. It is often the preferred arrangement for employers, balancing the convenience of remote working with the benefit of contact time between employees.
Most companies still insist on hybrid working over remote working, consisting usually of two-to-three days in the office and two-to-three days at home.
Many people cite time savings from the lack of a commute as one of the main benefits of hybrid working, while also claiming this type of arrangement improves efficiency.
Some employers still believe in the power of an office to increase overall output, but the jury is – understandably – still out on this, but we have summarised the key advantages and disadvantages below.
Disadvantages of hybrid working
- Improved work-life balance: Employees enjoy greater control over their personal and professional lives.
- Increased personal time: Less time commuting translates to more time for personal activities, enhancing overall well-being.
- Reduced distractions: Focused work time away from common office interruptions.
- Cost savings: Elimination of daily commuting expenses and associated time savings.
Advantages of hybrid working
- Isolation: Potential for reduced contact with colleagues can affect teamwork.
- Work-life boundary: Difficulty in separating home life from work.
- Security concerns: Higher risks when handling sensitive information remotely.
- Home distractions: Interruptions from family, pets, or household duties.
- Technology costs: Expenses related to setting up a home office and acquiring necessary equipment.
Electric Works N7 designs spaces with these modern work dynamics in mind. Whether you’re a creative looking for an inspiring environment or a professional needing versatile office solutions, Electric Works offers adaptable spaces tailored to the new ways of working.
By supporting hybrid working models, we provide the infrastructure and flexibility to thrive in today’s ever-evolving professional landscape.
Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach to creating professional spaces, we have designed units with the post-pandemic world of work in mind.
Whether you are a creative or a professional in need of an adaptable physical location, Electric Works has something for you.
Explore Islington and Holloway
At Electric Works N7, we strive to cultivate a vibrant community of professionals who also engage deeply with the local Islington and Holloway areas.
We encourage our community to explore and enjoy the local amenities, including a curated list of the best cafés within walking distance—perfect for those moments when you need a change of scenery or a meeting spot close by.