One of the most significant risks in a
model is the unintentional creation of a two tier system, where in office employees have a different, often perceived as better, experience than their remote colleagues. This can erode company culture, damage morale, and even impact retention. Building a strong hybrid culture means actively working to ensure equity and inclusion for everyone.
Proximity bias is a key driver of the two tier trap. Managers may unconsciously favor those they see more often, leading to disparities in opportunities, recognition, and access to information. To counter this, implement clear and objective performance evaluation criteria that focus on results rather than presence. Train your managers on recognizing and mitigating their own biases when managing hybrid teams.
Ensure that all employees have equal access to resources and opportunities. This includes access to technology, training programs, mentorship opportunities, and chances to work on high profile projects. Information sharing should be transparent and accessible to everyone, regardless of their location. Avoid making important decisions or having impromptu discussions that exclude remote participants. Consider implementing hybrid policies that mandate inclusive meeting practices.
Foster a sense of shared experience by creating rituals and routines that involve everyone. This could be a weekly all hands virtual meeting, a shared online space for celebrating successes, or cross team collaboration initiatives that bring together employees from different locations. The goal is to create a unified employee experience, not two separate ones.
Addressing the two tier trap requires vigilance and commitment. Regularly solicit feedback from both in office and remote employees about their experiences. Are they feeling equally valued and included? Are there perceived disparities in treatment or opportunities? Use this feedback to make necessary adjustments to your policies and practices. A truly strong hybrid culture is one where every employee feels they belong and have an equal chance to succeed.