Hybrid working – To ditch or not to ditch?

As companies plan to return to the office, many leaders are struggling with the concept of hybrid working. With the economic downturn causing labour turnover to slow down, many businesses are using this time to plan office-centric workforce strategies. However, research has shown that employees who have the flexibility to work from different locations and have control over their work hours are more likely to be productive and engaged.

Caitlin Duffy, Director in the Gartner HR practice, warns against completely shifting to office-based working and highlights the numerous benefits of hybrid working. Connectedness is the key to realizing the benefits of hybrid working. Companies that resist hybrid working run the risk of facing long-term reputation and attrition issues and hindering their competitiveness in a more virtual society.

At Eternal Engagements, our employment law specialists offer comprehensive guidance and support to companies in need. In the event of an employee emergency, our consultants can provide immediate assistance and in the case of a tribunal, our experts will be there to support you throughout the entire process. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help optimize your hybrid working experience.

Statistics

69% of business leaders had concerns about collaboration, culture, creativity and engagement with hybrid working
54% of HR leaders felt that their employees were less connected to their organisations than they were before the pandemic

References

Businesses warned not to ditch hybrid working – Personnel Today

10 Questions with Laura Archbold

In this new monthly blog series, we talk to our staff at Eternal Engagements from all departments and deeply dive into their career highlights, personal inspirations and thoughts about the business, plus a few fun facts!

This month we meet with Laura Archbold, Business development manager at Eternal Engagements…

First Job?

When I was ten, I designed a magazine full of useless information, printed 100 copies, and knocked on my neighbours’ doors to sell them. In one week, I made £10 and felt like I would take over the world!

How would you introduce yourself in an elevator pitch?

Hi there! I’m Laura Archbold, a Business Development Manager at Eternal Engagements. I’m passionate about developing creative and practical strategies to help our clients grow and thrive. In my spare time, I also run a cosy coffee shop in Cardiff, where I love chatting with customers and sharing my passion for delicious coffee. With a strong Welsh accent and a friendly personality, I’m always excited to connect with new people and explore new opportunities. Let’s chat and see how we can work together!

Biggest Career achievement?

Opening a coffee shop during the lockdown

Nickname? 

Litty Laura – My grandfather used to call me this because I was tiny as a toddler

What is it about the job that you enjoy?

The people I work with and the culture of the company. You do get looked after!

Who inspires you?

My nan, she’s the most positive and happy person I know – nothing ever phases her!

Favorite Sports Team?

The Welsh Rugby Team

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Ballerina

First Album?

Oasis – Definitely Maybe Spotify – Definitely Maybe (Remastered) – Album by Oasis

What are the company’s most significant challenges, and how do you think we are positioned to meet them?

Being in the infancy of our business and having an extremely high take-up rate – The challenge Eternal Engagements may face is managing our growth. As our company grows, it becomes more complex and challenging to manage. However, that’s why we know the importance of solid systems and processes and a clear organisational structure. We also realise we must hire the right people and provide them with the support and training they and the company need to succeed.

Thank you for reading our fourth instalment of the 10 Questions series with Laura Archbold, business development manager at Eternal Engagements. We hope you enjoyed getting to know her better and learning more about her career, inspirations, and thoughts about the business. Remember to watch for our next instalment featuring one of our other talented team members. Thank you for supporting Eternal Engagements!