Hybrid working is among the top ten trends that will shape global working in 2024, according to IWG. Stanford University has predicted that around a third or more white-collar workers will continue to work hybrid in the long term, proving that the megatrend will to continue.
Impact to work
“The hybrid migration is one of the most important forces at play in the world today as workers increasingly embrace the opportunity to work locally, bringing significant opportunities to the economies of local communities as well as creating a better work-life balance for employees,” Mark Dixon, founder and CEO of IWG, comments.
IWG posits that due to the widespread adoption of hybrid work, a new C-suite role will emerge—the Chief Hybrid Officer, who will lead in optimizing the hybrid environment. Another new role, the ‘Office Synchronizer’, is responsible for optimising office space and ensuring effective collaboration.
Companies will also prioritise creating a culture that strikes a balance between empowering employee flexibility and ensuring regular and adequate time for collaboration, despite varied work settings.
As hybrid working grows in prominence, there will also be greater employer expectations, increased employer support for families, a healthier work/life balance, accommodation of neurodivergent team members, an increasing reality of unretirement, and cutting carbon emissions.
Hybrid work will also be the top employee benefit, impacting the business’ ability to retain the best talent. It can also increase AI adoption as companies embrace the advantages of equipping their employees with AI tools and skills.
Radical reshape
“Hybrid working is radically reshaping how we work. Businesses that embrace it will attract the best talent and get the most out of their workforces all while reducing their bottom line. This pace of change will continue in 2024, with an increasing number of employees and businesses understanding the clear financial, cultural, and sustainability benefits that flexible working models can bring,” adds Dixon.
