80%
workers prefer hybrid work
CLICKSHARE - HYBRID MEETINGS 8 min read
Hybrid meetings are the game-changers of the business landscape, bridging the gap between physical and virtual interactions. They enable the flexibility, productivity, life-work balance and human connection we seek from the modern workplace.
In this article, we'll guide you through the essentials of hybrid meetings, from basic definitions to the latest trends reshaping the workplace, cutting-edge technology and expert tips. We'll provide you with know-how, empowering you to thrive in this era of unprecedented connectivity and productivity.
Hybrid meetings combine the best features of both meeting types: the sense of connection of in-person communication and the virtual meeting benefits of digitally-enhanced information sharing, recording and interactivity.
The aim is to make hybrid collaboration as intuitive and straightforward as face-to-face with the help of meeting technology: AV peripherals like cameras, mics, speakers, all-in-one video bars, video conferencing platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Webex by Cisco and wireless video conferencing technology.
However, in our research, we’ve unveiled a hybrid work paradox: we all love the flexibility of working hybrid, but we still struggle with the hybrid workplace model. 71% of the hybrid workforce experiences stress in hybrid meetings and is frustrated by recurring technical issues.
workers prefer hybrid work
find hybrid meetings stressful
To facilitate hybrid meetings, make sure you overcome challenges such as the above and make employees love meeting, you need to start with a comprehensive hybrid policy based on your workforce needs and preferences.
A hybrid work policy is the foundation document for a productive and engaging hybrid work environment. It describes when and how employees can work and meet from locations other than the office and/or in which flexible schedule. It’s a clear, transparent agreement that outlines all regulations and expectations for workers in this mixed work model.
Afterwards, you can begin rethinking the design of your offices. It´s likely you will need less regular desk space and open-plan offices since people come to the workplace mainly to collaborate. Set up more rooms and separate spaces to foster (hybrid) interaction, interactivity and connection.
Then, it´s time for technology for your newly redesigned office spaces but also for your workers´ home office.
Clear communication, requests for feedback and close monitoring are mandatory to ensure the success of your hard work, high adoption rates for your new space, and for happier, productive employees.
Your brand-new hybrid workplace might require modifications and your now hybrid teams might take some time to adjust so make sure to be patient, accommodating and open to optimization.
You can only run successful hybrid meetings by putting technology at the heart of collaboration, so ensure everyone has access to suitable technology, in their home office and on site.
In the hybrid meeting room, you need:
Add a wireless conferencing solution like ClickShare that will bring all technologies together in one, seamless, flexible experience in any meeting room and that is easy to use and maintain by your IT department. Did you know the ClickShare all-in-one video bars have wireless conferencing capabilities built in? So you will only need to add a display and your meeting room is up and running!
For your workers´ home office think of laptops, monitors, ergonomic keyboard and mouse, webcam, headphones and a decent internet connection.
Make sure your technology and room setup are up to the task before you join the meeting to prevent any delays and hassle.
Test your cameras, mics and displays before starting, close any applications you will not need and turn off all audio notifications from your phone or laptop that could disrupt the call.
For instance, setting up a video meeting in your meeting room with ClickShare can be done in seconds and it works in any meeting room, with any videoconferencing solution and a wide range of audio and video peripherals.
Communication and collaboration will not come naturally at first in hybrid mode. Give them a boost by leveraging technology and put all the features of your hybrid conference room equipment to use. Share content, use appealing videos, infographics and high-resolution images and create regular touch points with quizzes and polls.
Leave room for questions, keep an eye on the chat and keep remote attendees involved, visible and audible at all times.
Security is paramount so be sure to use meeting hardware and videoconferencing apps that have security built in.
ClickShare is ISO27001 certified, meaning that it has been developed by committing to safe processes and international security standards.
Give every meeting attendee, regardless of their location, an equal seat at the (virtual) table.
Use technology to make sure they are really seen and heard in the meeting room and to give them a true sense of presence. Be mindful and give them plenty of chances to contribute.
To equip the workplace for seamless hybrid conferencing, investments in video conferencing room setup and in better video conferencing technology are the number 1 priority.
That will include:
ClickShare helps your employees run better hybrid meetings from their laptop. Enable a simple, one-click experience with our agnostic, wireless room system at the heart of your hybrid meeting room ecosystem.