Hybrid working became really popular during the pandemic. It was a way for businesses to keep things running while keeping employees safe. Now, even after the pandemic, many companies have kept it as part of their flexible working options.
Bad weather can pop up out of nowhere, as we saw last week with Storm Eowyn which hit Northern Ireland causing widespread damage, power outages, travel problems, dangerous roads and consequently many headaches for businesses. But with a hybrid working setup, bad weather doesn’t have to shut everything down. Letting employees work from home keeps things moving and keeps everyone safe.
Here’s why hybrid working can make a real difference when the weather turns nasty.
1. Maintain Productivity Without the Commute
When roads are icy, flooded, or snow-covered, travel can become dangerous. Rather than losing an entire workday, employees can stay home and continue working safely and efficiently. Ensure your team has the tools and access they need for seamless remote work, such as secure logins and cloud-based communication platforms.
2. Promote Employee Well-being
Forcing employees to brave treacherous conditions just to get to work can increase stress and decrease morale. By offering the flexibility to work from home, you'reprioritising their safety and mental well-being, showing employees that you genuinely care about them as people and not just the work they can produce.
3. Reduced Absenteeism
Without a hybrid option, employees may feel they have no choice but to take a day off when adverse weather makes travel impossible. Hybrid models allow you to reduce unnecessary absenteeism by enabling people to work remotely instead. Even if they cannot be quite as productive at home as they would normally be in the office, it is better to have some work being done rather than letting everything pile up for when they can return to the office.
4. Options for Non-Hybrid Roles
Not all roles are suitable for remote work. In these cases, providing employees with alternatives such as taking annual leave, unpaid leave, or making up hours later demonstrates understanding and flexibility. However, it is important to be clear about these options in your adverse weather policy so employees know their choices ahead of time.
5. Strengthen Your Employer Brand
Companies that show empathy and adaptability in challenging situations build stronger reputations. Being known as a business that cares for its workforce boosts employee engagement and makes it easier to attract and retain top talent.
Be Prepared
If you haven't already, now is a great time to formalise your hybrid working and adverse weather policies. Being proactive helps both your business and employees deal with future disruptions with confidence.
Need help creating or reviewing your hybrid working policies to ensure they're legally compliant and effective? Get in touch with Dakota Blue Consulting. We’re here to support you in building practical policies that work for both your business and your team.