Will Google’s Hybrid Approach Work?

Google recently unveiled how it will approach hybrid working in the future, but is their method the best when it comes to this new way of operating?

The company’s strategy includes three days in the office and two days wherever employees work best. While in the office, workers will focus on collaborative and team-building tasks.

In mid-June, Google will have a process that allows employees to apply to move to another office or even full remote work opportunities. 

Google will also incorporate work-from-anywhere weeks, allowing employees to choose where they want to work for up to four weeks each year with manager approval.

Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, noted that these changes will see 60% of employees coming together in the office throughout the week, 20% working in new offices and the other 20% working from home.

However, some critics question specific aspects of Google’s new plan. For instance, why did the company settle on three days in the office? And will remote employees feel alienated from the rest of their team members?

“There was little justification behind why three days was selected,” said David Niu, CEO of employee engagement software company TINYpulse. “Returning to work is a complicated process. Given the huge impact that the transition to in-person work will have on employees’ lives, they want to have a voice in the process. Before formulating return-to-work plans, organizations should survey their employees to understand employees’ needs and concerns.”