The global outbreak of COVID-19 has led to the biggest paradigm shift in recent history in terms of the way we work. A study by HSG, Novu Office and HR Campus shows that hybrid working models that combine working from home and working in the company will characterise the future of our everyday working lives. The study also emphasises the important role of senior management in companies - both as initiators and as role models in these fundamental changes.
The joint research team, consisting of members from the University of St.Gallen, Novu Office and HR Campus, conducted interviews with more than 150 leaders in Switzerland to learn more about the beliefs, challenges and uncertainties of those who want to successfully implement the future model of the hybrid workplace. In addition, a large-scale survey of managers and HR experts from 841 Swiss companies of all sizes and industries was conducted. The Hybrid Work Compass summarises the most important findings and serves as a practice-oriented, data-based tool to support companies in designing their future working model.
Hybrid Work Compass
What sets the Hybrid Work Compass apart from other reports on COVID-19, working from home and hybrid working methods is its clear focus on the future. Instead of focussing on experiences during the pandemic, it provides answers to important strategic questions for Swiss companies such as: "What will future working models look like after the pandemic?" or "What will be the biggest challenges in developing and implementing these models?".
Managers as initiators and role models
The survey results highlight the important role of senior management in organisations - both as initiators and role models in this fundamental transformation. Other key findings:
1.Hybrid working models will prevail
The way we work has changed forever. While only 35% of all companies in Switzerland were using or considering hybrid working models before the COVID pandemic, the percentage of those doing so since COVID is as high as 77%. This trend is stable across all company sizes and industries.
2.Hybrid working models are still in their infancy
If you are still in the process of developing a hybrid working model for your company, you are not alone. Only 17% of companies have already fully implemented their hybrid working model, while 75% are still in the development phase. However, if you are one of those who have not yet tackled this issue (only 7% of companies), you should do so soon.
3.The biggest challenge: the corporate culture
89% of companies see maintaining and developing an inclusive corporate culture as the biggest challenge. New formats and tools must be used to unite employees working from home and on site within a common corporate culture.
4.The biggest opportunity: Attracting and retaining talent
87% of companies are convinced that hybrid working models will play a key role in attracting and retaining top talent - a factor that remains critical to a company's long-term success.
