We’re sure you’ve noticed, but workplace rules of engagement have rapidly changed. Suddenly, working from home is the norm, coming into the office is a big event, and it’s rare to have all your people in one place at one time. Shifting to a hybrid workplace doesn’t mean the end of productivity or a strong culture—but it does require some big shifts. We’ve gathered our top five dos and top five don’ts to help you transition your team from fully in-office to thriving hybrid.
Do pave the way for clear communication
Between email, chat, text, video calls, and online collaboration tools, there are so many ways to communicate. Align on the tools your team will use, what each is best for, and best practices around timing so people aren’t getting pings at all hours.
Do work on building team trust
With less time together in person, it can take longer to build strong relationships. Take the time to facilitate these connections, whether it’s planning the occasional offsite, encouraging regular 1:1s, or making space for casual chit chat before getting to business.
Do make well-being a priority
While working from home offers flexibility, it can lead to an always-on approach to work. Be sure to emphasize the importance of well-being and make space for people to sign off, check out, take breaks, and prioritize their mental health.
Do establish meeting guidelines
Meetings are simply more challenging when some people are in person and some people aren’t. Set up guidelines to ensure everyone has space to speak up and contribute. Clear agendas and video links on every invite go a long way.
Do hold people accountable
It can be easy to check out when you’re not seeing people every day. Be sure to set goals and deadlines with your people. Hold them accountable when they’re falling short and on the other hand, be sure to recognize their achievements.
Don’t micromanage your people
This is an obvious one—no one likes to be micromanaged. Set deadlines, communicate expectations clearly, and let people work how they want to work.
Don’t turn into big brother
Tracking your employees’ every move via camera or keystrokes is a great way to create a culture built on distrust. There are better ways to encourage productivity.
Don’t cut out personal connection time
With less opportunity for watercooler chit-chat and casual conversation, you’ll need to be more intentional about making time for relationship building.
Don’t lead with ambiguity
Establish clear workplace policies and communicate them often. Ambiguous rules or case-by-case guidelines can lead to chaos.
Don’t make events or meetings exclusive
When organizing meetings or events, make sure they work for everyone. Gatherings should be inclusive, whether you’re in the office or dialing in from afar.
Those are our top ten tips for leading a hybrid work environment. We’d love to hear what’s worked best for you in the comments.