The new working life and will it remain like this?

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The pandemic has transformed the way we work, and hybrid working, which includes both remote and in-person work, has become the norm for many businesses. While there are certainly challenges associated with hybrid working, it also presents opportunities for greater flexibility, improved work-life balance, and reduced commute times. In this article, we'll explore the benefits and drawbacks of hybrid working and what the future might hold for this new way of working.

One of the most significant advantages of hybrid working is the flexibility it provides. Employees can choose to work from home, a coworking space, or the office, depending on what works best for them. This flexibility can be especially helpful for working parents who need to balance work and childcare responsibilities. In fact, a recent survey found that 87% of working parents believe that hybrid working would improve their work-life balance.

Another benefit of hybrid working is the reduced time and cost associated with commuting. According to a survey by the Office for National Statistics, the average commute time in the UK is 60 minutes per day, which equates to five hours a week or 225 hours a year. By working remotely part of the time, employees can save significant amounts of time and money on commuting. Furthermore, a study by the Centre for Economics and Business Research found that hybrid working could save UK workers up to £17.9 billion per year in commuting costs.

However, there are also drawbacks to hybrid working. One of the main challenges is the potential for isolation and disconnection from colleagues. Remote work can make it difficult to build and maintain relationships with co-workers and can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. A survey by Totaljobs found that 56% of UK workers have experienced loneliness while working from home, and 29% feel that their mental health has been negatively affected by remote work.

There are also concerns about productivity and the blurring of boundaries between work and personal life. It can be challenging to switch off from work when your office is also your home, and this can lead to burnout and a decrease in productivity. In fact, a study by the Harvard Business Review found that remote workers tend to work longer hours and are at a higher risk of burnout than their office-based counterparts.

Despite these challenges, it's clear that hybrid working is here to stay. In fact, a survey by McKinsey & Company found that 70% of executives expect that hybrid working will become a permanent feature of work. Companies are also recognising the benefits of hybrid working, with many seeing improved productivity and employee satisfaction. A survey by FlexJobs found that 65% of workers believe that they are more productive when working from home, and 87% feel that remote work has had a positive impact on their quality of life.

Hybrid working presents both opportunities and challenges for employees and employers. While it may not be suitable for everyone, it's clear that many workers appreciate the flexibility and benefits associated with this new way of working. As we continue to navigate the post-pandemic world, it will be interesting to see how hybrid working evolves and what impact it will have on our work and personal lives.