Tips on Adjusting to a Hybrid Work Environment

A hybrid workplace creates open flexibility for employees to either work in-person within the office or elsewhere remotely. Depending on your employer, you might be required to rotate your working location throughout the week. For some, it might be difficult to adjust to the hybrid work model as you’ll need to prepare for commutes or be readily available at home for a meeting. Here are some pro tips to help fine-tune your hybrid schedule, while continuing to work comfortably no matter the location. 

Keep Your Hybrid Work Organized 

Desk organization is key to being a successful hybrid employee. Try to make sure both your home and company office desks are clean and set up nearly the same for consistency: 

• Buy a Desk Organizer: Having one at home and in the office will help keep everything together and easily accessible. 
• Use Computer Monitors: Make sure monitor hookups are the same and that cords are close by so you can unplug and plug back in with ease when needed. 
• Stock Up Stationery Supplies: Instead of keeping supplies in your work bag where they can easily get lost during the weekly shuffle, keep equal amounts of notepads and pens available both in the office and at home. 
• Keep Digitally Organized: Having your work computer organized with appropriate file names, folders, and browser bookmarks will help keep tabs on where all your critical documentation is stored. 

Along with maintaining your digital workspace, cybersecurity risks can come into play in a hybrid environment that could potentially harm you or the organization. That’s why it’s important to mitigate security risk by following up with your company’s IT department on the latest ways to stay secure. One important security measure is enabling two-factor authentication. For this, you’ll receive a text message after signing in to verify who’s actually accessing the account. Also, your company may require you to regularly change passwords to reduce the possibility of hackers gaining access to work accounts. This is crucial to comply with, as hackers can easily access information if you’re connected to unsecured public networks when working remotely from places such as coffee shops. 

Must-Have Items for the Hybrid Worker

While keeping your workspace organized in order to ensure dependable productivity, you should also work on keeping an inventory of essential items. Some must-have personal items suitable for both work environments include:

• Work Clothes: Your work wardrobe should remain consistent whether you’re at home or in the office. Clothes should be comfortable, but also business casual; so avoid wearing sweatpants and junky t-shirts when working from home. Shirts with button-up collars and chino pants are always reliable staples that make everyone look professional and presentable. Dressing the part at home will make employees feel more engaged and productive while on the clock.
• Commuter Bag: Most people have a work bag where they keep all their necessities. You should always keep it nearby, even at home. But what should you put in it? Aside from your laptop and charger, some people might keep a pack of gum, granola bars, and masks handy inside their bag for the commute and workday. For those wearing glasses with masks during their commute, make sure to have a strong seal on your mask or anti-fog spray handy to prevent glasses from fogging while en route to the office. Steamy lenses on your glasses can be a nuisance, so treating them ahead of time with supplies in your bag can save a lot of trouble and help you maintain clear vision.
• Insulated Travel Cup: There are a ton of travel cups or mugs on the market, but do yourself a favor and make sure to purchase one that’s insulated. These universal cups can keep your coffee hot, or your water chilled for hours. They’re also better for the environment, as you’re reducing your carbon footprint by limiting the use of normal disposable paper cups or plastic bottles.

Along with having these essential items, make sure to ditch used masks, old notes, and food wrappers in your clothing pockets or bag, as they can accumulate crumbs and other germs. It’s also a good practice to regularly wash out your insulated cups, as leaving any liquid in there for longer than 24 hours can bring in unwanted bacteria. Your health is extremely important, so in addition to taking these measures, be sure to pack hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes to wipe down both desks and remain protected in any working location. 

Plan Your Week Accordingly

If you’re currently transitioning to or starting a new hybrid role, time management is vital to remain successful. Creating a steady schedule for working at home, and/or in the office will help you stay at the top of your game. 

Your morning routine should remain the same no matter where you’re working for the day. Reduce the stress of factoring in the morning commute by allowing the same amount of time for signing in from home or traveling to the office. Your routine should include getting up at the same time every day and following the same daily steps of getting ready for the day, including eating breakfast. 

Establishing a routine can positively elevate your mental health and help you stay productive for the rest of the day, even after work. Some helpful routine adjustments can include adding in some light reading or small morning exercises. Ultimately, exercising either your brain or body before work can help you feel less stressed and have a better work-life balance. 

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