Promoting (physical) health in a hybrid workplace
Hybrid working has increased significantly worldwide, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, and there are several trends and metrics that show its impact. Read it below:
1. Adoption of hybrid working
- Global adoption: According to a survey by McKinsey & Company As of 2022, 58% of employees worldwide are now working remotely at least one day a week, and 35% are working completely remotely. These figures show that hybrid working is an enduring trend.
- Regional differences: In North America and Europe, hybrid working has become significantly more popular, while in Asia and Africa, some countries are still sticking to traditional work models. Nevertheless, there is a general shift to more flexible work options around the world.
2. Productivity and hybrid work
- Productivity: From a study by Harvard Business Review found that 77% of employees consider hybrid work to be more productive than full office work. Many companies report that their employees are more focused and efficient with hybrid work models.
- Challenges: However, productivity remains a matter of discussion. Some executives are concerned about employee control and engagement. According to a report by Microsoft from 2022, 85% of managers experience challenges in trusting the productivity of their hybrid teams
3. Satisfaction and employee experience
- Satisfaction: From a global survey by Gartner In 2023, 82% of employees who have the option to work in a hybrid way were more satisfied with their work-life balance. This contributes to higher satisfaction and lower turnover.
- Mental health: Hybrid work models also appear to have a positive impact on mental health. A study by Buffer in 2023 showed that 78% of respondents who worked in a hybrid way experienced less stress compared to colleagues working entirely in the office
4. Challenges and future expectations
- Technological Challenges: Despite the benefits, there are challenges in terms of technology and connectivity. according PwC 54% of companies experience problems providing consistent technology support to hybrid workers.
- Future of Hybrid Working: It is expected that hybrid working will remain a permanent feature of the work culture. Deloitte predicts that by 2025, around 75% of office jobs in developed countries will consist of hybrid work models.
Promoting physical health in a hybrid workplace—where employees work both in the office and from home—is critical. In this work environment, employees can easily face health challenges such as lack of exercise, poor ergonomics, and insufficient work-life balance. To ensure the physical health of employees, employers must proactively take measures that apply both in the office and at home.
1. Optimizing Ergonomics
Home office: Many home workers do not have the right furniture and equipment to work ergonomically. Employers can encourage employees to set up ergonomically responsible workplaces by providing them with guidelines for the ideal working position and even offering compensation for the purchase of ergonomic chairs, reclining desks, and monitors.
Office environment: Ergonomics should also be of paramount importance in the office. Offering adjustable workstations, good chairs and the ability to alternate between sitting and standing work can help prevent physical complaints.
2. Promoting Movement
Daily Movement: Sitting for long periods of time is a major problem, both at home and in the office. Employers can encourage employees to take regular breaks and exercise by providing tools that remind them to get up, stretch and stretch, or take a short walk. This can be done via apps or built-in functions in computer systems.
Sports and Exercise: Employers can offer gym subscriptions, facilitate virtual fitness classes, or even organize company-wide challenges to promote exercise. By organizing activities, such as lunch walks or virtual yoga sessions, employees can be encouraged to stay active no matter where they work.
3. Healthy Eating Habits
At home and in the office: A healthy diet plays an important role in overall physical health. Employers can educate employees about healthy food through webinars, workshops, or by sharing healthy recipes. In addition, office companies can offer healthy snacks and meals, such as fruit, nuts, and healthy lunch options.
4. Mental Health and Stress Management
Stress reduction: Physical health is closely linked to mental wellbeing. Employers should therefore also pay attention to stress management. This can be done by offering mindfulness sessions, access to mental health support, and promoting a culture where it's okay to talk about stress. At home, stress can often increase due to the absence of clear boundaries between work and home life; employers can help employees set clear working hours and take adequate breaks.
5. Promoting Work-Life Balance
Flexibility: Hybrid working offers employees flexibility, but it needs to be managed properly to prevent work from dominating personal life. Employers can help by providing clear guidelines about working hours and respecting employees' time off. In addition, offering flexible working hours or the ability to take time off in between can contribute to a better balance and thus physical health.
6. Communication and Support
Open Communication: It is important that there is an open channel of communication between employees and supervisors about physical health. Regular check-ins and encouraging employees to discuss workplace issues or workload can contribute to a healthier work environment.
Support: Offering a support network, such as access to company doctors or physiotherapists, can help employees prevent or remedy physical complaints.
7. Exemplary behavior of managers
Managers as role models: The behavior of managers has a major influence on the health culture within an organization. When managers themselves actively take breaks, make healthy choices and respect work-life balance, employees are more likely to follow suit.
Conclusion
Promoting physical health in a hybrid workplace requires a holistic approach that includes ergonomics, exercise, nutrition, mental health, work-life balance, and communication. By addressing these elements integrally, employers can create a work environment where employees, regardless of their workplace, remain healthy and productive. The responsibility lies with both the employer, who must facilitate the resources and culture, and the employee, who must actively use these resources. For example, a hybrid work model can not only be productive but also sustainable and healthy.
empower. complements this by providing accessible and professional health support from certified experts, so that employees have the tools they need to manage stress, improve focus and achieve a better work-life balance.
