Hybrid Working: It's a Game Changer!

 Let’s talk about something that's been a hot topic lately—hybrid working. Finally we have proof that Hybrid working drives business performance. A Stamford Professor, Nick Bloom, has conducted a study and  published his findings, and I couldn’t wait to share the juicy details with you all. Trust me, it’s pretty exciting!

1) Hybrid WFH (Work From Home) 2-days a week has no impact on employee or firm performance.

   - Yep, you heard it right! No negative effects on employee grading, promotions, innovation, development, leadership, or other business metrics. It’s business as usual, folks!

2) Hybrid WFH reduced quit rates by one-third.

   - With each quit costing firms around $20,000, this approach saved millions. Talk about a win-win!

3) Quit rate reductions were largest for female employees, non-managers, and those with the longest commutes.

   - For industries struggling with gender diversity—like finance and tech—this is another huge benefit.

4) Managers initially thought hybrid would decrease productivity by 2.6%. After a 6-month experiment, they changed their minds, estimating a productivity increase of 1%.

   - Managers discovered hybrid works well!

These results really resonate for me and intuitively I think we all knew that hybrid working was right, but it feels so good to have it confirmed.

As a mother of two with a 90-minute commute each way to London, hybrid working has been an absolute game changer for me. Juggling endless after-school activities, exams, and cello rehearsals (that instrument is not commuter-friendly!) has become much more manageable with the flexibility of working from home.

I now have more energy to make dinner, spend quality time with my children, and live more in the moment. I can't believe my daughter is already 16, and in just two years, she’ll be off to university. Time really does fly, and I don’t want to miss a moment of it. This time is so precious.

My weekends are better too. I can take a five-minute break during the week to put on a load of washing, instead of leaving it to pile up for the weekend. Sure, by Friday night, the house still might look like it's been burgled, but that’s something I’m working on with the kids!

My employer wins too. With work and life blending seamlessly, I’m happy to check emails in the evening in exchange for picking up my kids from school. Those car rides have become our time to have meaningful conversations, something I wouldn’t trade for anything.

“That sounds great Jo, but how does this link to confidence and performing at my best at work?”

Boosting Confidence and Managing Work Anxiety

Hybrid work can be a real confidence booster. Think about it—fewer frantic commutes or office distractions. You get to work in your own space, at your own pace. This can significantly reduce work anxiety and help you perform at your best. Plus, knowing that your productivity is just as good (or even better) at home can make you feel more in control and less stressed.

Authenticity and Showing Up as Your True Self

Hybrid working also allows us to embrace our true selves. Whether it's sporting comfy clothes, taking midday breaks to recharge, or simply having more control over our environment, we can be more authentic. And being authentic boosts confidence, too. When you're comfortable, you're more likely to take risks and speak up—whether it’s in a meeting or pursuing a new project.

Creativity and Innovation

 Working from different environments can spark creativity. Sometimes, a change of scenery is all you need to get those creative juices flowing. Whether it's your cozy home office, a sunny café, or even a park, different settings can inspire fresh ideas and new perspectives.

Work-Life Balance and Setting Boundaries

 Hybrid working can enhance your work-life balance, giving you more flexibility to manage personal and professional responsibilities. But remember, it’s crucial to set boundaries. Without clear lines, work can easily spill into personal time, leading to burnout. So, set your work hours, take regular breaks, and ensure you switch off at the end of the day.

So, there you have it! Hybrid working is not just a trend; it’s a proven strategy that boosts productivity, reduces quit rates, and enhances our overall well-being. If you’ve been feeling guilty about it or haven’t tried it yet, now might be the perfect time to let go of any angst or give it a go.

Click here to see the full report from Nick Bloom- warning it’s a bit scientific!