As a result of pandemic lockdowns, many businesses have been forced to experiment with more flexible, hybrid work arrangements. For many workers, this has been a major win with countless lifestyle perks, and there’s no going back. But it won’t be an easy transition for all businesses alike. Here are some ways in which the hybrid workplace can work for small business owners.
1. It’s a time-saver
Cutting out the dreaded daily commute means a great deal of extra time in the day. From a business owner’s perspective, this may mean more time speaking with clients or developing new products or campaigns. For employees, it can mean greater work-life balance, which translates into a happier, healthier, and more engaged workforce.
2. The talent pool gets deeper
When the restriction of location is removed from the tricky equation of recruitment, SMB owners can consider hiring workers who live outside their city, province, or even country. Suddenly, there’s a whole new pool of qualified remote applicants to consider, especially when searching for specific types of niche experience.
3. Cut down on overhead costs
Reducing overhead costs has been a major pandemic benefit to many SMBs. Business owners can save big on overhead if they decide that remote or mobile work suits their business model, and they’re prepared to take the leap. Reducing one’s real estate footprint, or even sharing a co-working space with other SMBs, can help prop up profitability. If your business is seasonal, consider going mobile.
4. Become a more sustainable business
The less time you and your staff spend commuting can help reduce your business’ environmental impact on the planet. Fewer emissions produce fewer greenhouse gases, which can slow the rate of climate change. On a smaller scale, having fewer people in the office also contributes to less waste production. Using less of everything from printer paper to paper towels and coffee cups can add up over time.
5. Increase productivity and sales
While some managers feel they have less oversight with remote and hybrid workers, employees may actually be more productive when they can choose their work hours or location. When surveyed, 90 percent of Canadians reported they’ve been just as productive since the move to hybrid work. The office can be a distracting place to work, with phones ringing and other interruptions. With the accessibility of online tools, many find themselves putting extra hours into research and marketing, which can really pay off in growth for the business as a whole.
Need help retooling your business? While you decide if hybrid work is right for you, let Yellow Pages build a smart digital marketing program to help your business adapt to the new reality.
Call 1-877-553-6883 today for a free consultation with one of our digital experts
.jpg)
.jpg)