Hybrid work improves productivity and work-life balance, say employees: HP Study – Times of India

Indian employees are unwilling to go back to the office full-time as they are relishing the hybrid work model, which became a necessity in the last two years, due to the pandemic. According to HP’s global study, Indian employees strongly favour a hybrid work model as they believe it improves their productivity and gives them a much-needed work-life balance. Employers too have something to cheer about as Indian employees indicate a higher probability of staying in their current job if given a hybrid work option.
HP Inc commissioned a global hybrid work survey that offers key insights into Indian employees’ workplace attitudes, career growth, and retention issues. The survey had a total of over 10,000 respondents, including over 1000 from India, across the ages of 18-50+ years. The participants worked in various industries full time or part time or were business owners or self-employed.
According to the survey, the hybrid model increases productivity, makes employees focus better and provides more flexibility to get the work done. 47% of respondents believe that home productivity with office visibility gives them a better chance of promotion and gives them more opportunities to demonstrate their abilities and build relationships with their team members.

The survey also suggests that Indian respondents feel more open to constructive collaborations in the hybrid work model. In a remote-only setting, establishing this human connection and socialisation is challenging. 42% of respondents believe they can have better and more engaging conversations in-person while 62% find it easier to work with other people in office.
Technology acts as an enabler
51% of respondents said that laptops help them carry out tasks more productively and 43% agree that they have a more enhanced collaborative process through them. According to the survey, companies must provide access to better tools while conducting adequate training, to further boost productivity. Additionally, promoting a culture of trust within the workplace leads to inclusivity in a hybrid work environment.

The survey further reveals that there is still much work to be done in ensuring a truly equitable and collaborative future of work. The concept of ‘Technology Shame’ often hinders acceptance (of hybrid work?) and a holistic work approach. Potential embarrassment from tech failures is causing more than a third of younger respondents to purchase their own equipment. In India, 30% of the respondents believe that internet connection is one of the major disruptions. To further improve productivity, 13% respondents believe that they need access to better tools and accessories such as headsets, monitors and webcam.