In the latest HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Divya Ghatak about the viability of hybrid work models and leadership approaches to sustain operational efficiency and team morale. Below is a summary of the main points from their conversation! Check out the full episode and let us know what you think!
Watch the episode here:
Quick Recap
Jonathan and Divya discussed the viability of hybrid work models and leadership approaches in maintaining operational efficiency and team morale. They emphasized the importance of balancing remote and in-person work, investing in employee experience and connection, and adapting to the new world of hybrid work. They also discussed the challenges of fostering meaningful interaction among colleagues in a return-to-office or hybrid work environment and the company's model for bringing people together, focusing on six key pillars.
Hybrid Work Models and Leadership Approaches
Jonathan and Divya discussed the topic of hybrid work models and leadership approaches to maintain operational efficiency and team morale. Divya, the Chief People Officer at SentinelOne, shared her background and experience in HR leadership roles at various tech companies. The conversation began with Divya joining from Budapest, after a long journey from her usual location in California. Jonathan expressed his pleasure at having Divya on the call and introduced her to the team. The meeting was set to delve into the viability of hybrid work models and leadership approaches.
Hybrid Work Models and Employee Wellbeing
Divya and Jonathan discussed the shift towards hybrid work models in response to the global pandemic. Divya emphasized the importance of balancing remote and in-person work, highlighting the benefits of hybrid models for employee connection, wellbeing, and impact. She also mentioned the company's approach to managing globally distributed teams and the use of co-working spaces in locations without an office. Jonathan noted the increasing trend of return-to-office mandates, despite evidence supporting the effectiveness of hybrid work models. Divya agreed, suggesting that companies should invest in employee experience and connection, rather than solely focusing on brick-and-mortar buildings.
Intentional Team Building in a Hybrid World
Jonathan and Divya discussed the reasons for bringing people together, both in-person and virtually. They agreed that there are valid reasons for team members to come together, such as solving business problems, team building, and giving back to the community. However, they also highlighted the importance of not falling into the trap of sunk cost fallacies or outdated leadership methods. Divya emphasized the need for intentional experiences to bring teams together, while Jonathan stressed the importance of adapting to the new world of hybrid work and reskilling for effective leadership.
Hybrid Work Environment and in-Person Interactions
Divya and Jonathan discussed the importance of in-person interactions for early career professionals, particularly in a hybrid work environment. Divya emphasized the value of these interactions in a globally dispersed team and suggested that a hybrid model might be the best approach. Jonathan agreed, noting that younger workers are realizing the benefits of some in-person interactions and that flexibility is key. Both agreed that organizations need to find the right balance for their specific needs.
Fostering Meaningful Interaction in Hybrid Work Environments
Jonathan, a professor and consultant, discussed the challenges of fostering meaningful interaction among colleagues in a return-to-office or hybrid work environment. He emphasized that simply having people in the same space does not guarantee interaction, and that leaders need to be more intentional and purposeful in facilitating collaboration. Divya agreed with Jonathan's points and suggested sharing a visual representation of how to build connectedness in such environments.
Fostering Connection and Well-Being in Companies
Divya discussed the company's model for bringing people together, emphasizing the importance of fostering connection, encouraging well-being, promoting impact, and empowerment. She outlined six key pillars, including recognition, well-being, belonging, milestones, community, and empowerment. Divya also mentioned the company's intranet, S Connect, and the S Foundation.
Listen to the webinar here:
