A Guide to Running a Successful Hybrid Business Post-Pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic may have come to an end, but the challenge of returning to the office still remains for businesses of all sizes. Cisco’s recent Global Hybrid Work Study sheds light on the expectations and realities of the in-office experience for employees. To gain further insights, I had a conversation with Aruna Ravichandran, SVP and CMO of Webex by Cisco, on how employees truly feel about returning to the office versus working remotely, as well as tips on running an effective hybrid office.

Hybrid Workplace Solutions for Small Businesses

Rieva Lesonsky: Some larger businesses are pushing for a return to the office. Does offering remote work options help small businesses attract top talent?
Aruna Ravichandran: Embracing a hybrid work model not only attracts top talent but also boosts creativity, productivity, and overall employee satisfaction. While the benefits of hybrid work are clear, the real challenge lies in making it work effectively.

• According to Cisco’s study, 72% of employees are positive about returning to the office, but only 47% believe their work environments are equipped for this new era of hybrid work.
• To support collaborative work environments, office spaces need to foster seamless collaboration, social interaction, and creative brainstorming.
• Designing office spaces that cater to how employees prefer to work together is crucial in enhancing productivity.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Fully Remote, In-Office, or Hybrid Businesses

Lesonsky: What are the pros and cons of running a fully remote company, mandating a return to the office, or operating as a hybrid business?
Ravichandran: The traditional role of the office is evolving, with collaboration being the primary reason for employees to be physically present. To foster effective collaboration, companies need to reimagine their workspaces and make them more inclusive for remote employees.

• For an effective hybrid business model, it’s essential to revamp workspaces to optimize them for hybrid meetings, including video-enabled spaces, modernized devices, and enhanced connectivity.
• Hybrid work environments offer the opportunity to engage a global workforce and foster inclusivity within the organization.
• Mandating a strict return to the office can lead to decreased productivity and employee satisfaction, highlighting the importance of offering flexibility in work arrangements.

How to Run a More Effective Hybrid Company

Lesonsky: Do you need a minimum number of employees to effectively run a hybrid business model?
Ravichandran: Businesses of all sizes can successfully operate a hybrid work model by leveraging innovative technology and collaboration tools.

• Implementing a hybrid work model requires embracing different work styles and empowering employees to work where they are most productive.
• Giving employees equal access to advancements and technology, regardless of their work location, promotes a fair and balanced workplace.

Minimum Tech Requirements and Tips for Running Online Meetings Smoothly

Lesonsky: What are the essential tech requirements for a remote or hybrid company, and how can online meetings run more efficiently?
Ravichandran: Video-enabling every space and ensuring interoperability are key requirements for seamless hybrid experiences.

• AI technology can enhance online meetings by automating tasks, ensuring high-quality video and audio, and providing real-time transcriptions and translations.
• Leveraging AI for tasks like summarizing meetings, catching up users on missed action items, and generating meeting recaps can enhance productivity and collaboration.

The Future of the Workplace: Heading Towards a Hybrid Model

Lesonsky: Where do you see the workplace heading in the next five years?
Ravichandran: The future of the workplace will be heavily influenced by AI, with a focus on enhancing productivity and simplifying workflows.

• AI will revolutionize the way we work by automating repetitive tasks and allowing employees to focus on more creative work.
• Video and audio intelligence capabilities powered by AI will ensure equal participation for all employees, regardless of their work location.
• The integration of AI-enhanced technologies will make collaboration more efficient and personalized, driving productivity and innovation in the workplace.

By embracing a hybrid work model, businesses can adapt to the changing landscape of work post-pandemic and create inclusive and productive work environments for their employees.