Building a Successful Remote Work Strategy: A Guide to 15 Elements for Accelerated Hybrid Work

During the pandemic, employees and leaders recognized the necessity of remote work and adapted to this new normal. Initially perceived as a temporary solution, remote work has proven its worth through improved productivity and is now seen as a long-lasting work arrangement. However, this paradigm shift has sparked confusion among employees and policymakers. Addressing issues on a case-by-case basis isn’t sustainable. A comprehensive remote work strategy is crucial to maintain accountability, transparency, and compliance within the company.

Understanding the Significance of a Remote Work Strategy

In the past two years, I have engaged with stakeholders across various industry segments to deliberate on what a good remote or hybrid work strategy should encompass. This strategy intersects with several disciplines and functions within an organization, making it critical to address all key factors in a balanced manner.

A comprehensive remote work strategy should include clear guidelines on expense claims, insurance coverage, benefits, incentives, allowances, and flexibilities. It should also outline performance measures, compliance restrictions, and other expectations.

Essential Elements of a Hybrid Work Strategy: A 15-Point Checklist

Developing a remote or hybrid work strategy? Consider these 15 key elements to drive meaningful discussions among your functional groups:

HR Perspective

1. Preferred Positions for Remote Work: What roles or jobs are ideal for remote work? Include an example.
2. Flexibility of Work Modes: What restrictions or encouragements exist for different work modes like remote, anywhere, and home working?
3. Transition between Remote and Onsite Work: How flexible is the transition between remote and onsite work?
4. Incentives for Remote Work: What incentives are provided for remote work, or what benefits might be lost?

Performance Metrics

5. Time Utilization: Are employees expected to use their commuting time for work-related activities?
6. Productivity Tracking: How is the productivity and performance of remote workers tracked and rewarded compared to onsite employees?
7. Maintaining Professionalism at Home: What are the expectations to minimize family interferences, distractions, and noises?

Financial Considerations

8. Home-Related Expenses: What kinds of home-related expenses (like the internet, aircon, electricity, facilities, furniture) can be claimed?
9. Allowances: Do remote workers lose allowances like transport and overtime, or do they gain additional ones like internet, phone, etc.?
10. Salary Adjustments: How does the pay of remote workers compare to onsite workers considering the flexibility and work-life balance they enjoy?

Legal Aspects

11. Compliance: How does the remote work policy comply with the government, legal, and labor requirements of the countries where the company operates?
12. Workplace Injury Definitions: How is a workplace injury or accident defined for remote workers?
13. Insurance and Protections: How do insurance claims, accident coverage, and protections differ for remote workers?

IT and Security

14. Data Safety and Compliance: How are internet security, data encryption, data safety, and usage compliance monitored?
15. Asset Tracking: How are company assets assigned to remote workers tracked, and how is asset depreciation reported?

Building a Sustainable Remote Work Strategy

This checklist is a stepping stone to frame a sustainable remote work strategy, but there’s more to be done. You need to break down this high-level strategy into functional strategies, including IT, finance, customer support, and employee benefits.

Remember, employees work for an entity that is identified for its space and existence. When job roles become remote, there’s a risk of losing the sense of belonging, loyalty, and motivation. Always consider thepreferences and needs of prospective employees while weighing the business benefits of a remote work strategy.

As technology continues to evolve and the market shifts towards a remote work preference, you may have to adjust your strategy frequently. Stay ahead of these changes and ensure your business thrives in this hybrid work era.

Ready to Level Up Your Remote Work Strategy?

Download 15-point checklist and drive audit within your organization. Level up your position relative to the market.

Credits: A version of this article appeared in HR.com’s Workforce and Management Excellence Magazine.