It’s become quite clear that hybrid work is here to stay. Combining part-time work-from-home with part-time in-office work, this model has become increasingly popular as companies look to stay competitive in a tough labor market. In theory, hybrid work is a “best of both worlds” option: the flexibility of remote work combined with the collaborative atmosphere of in-person work. Marketing teams will need to get creative, however, to tackle the challenges that this new work model may bring.
For marketing teams, finding new ways to handle coordination should be a priority when considering a hybrid work model. Collaboration and creativity are crucial for developing and executing great campaigns, and while a hybrid model doesn’t inherently mean less interaction, it does mean that teams will need to rethink how that interaction and collaboration happens.
It’s all about finding the right mix of in-office and at-home work, as well as using both of those types of work strategically. A long string of video meetings, no matter how informal, is more likely to lead to fatigue than creativity. Instead, work with team members to figure out what works best for them to get the work done on time and at the usual level of quality.
Almost counterintuitively, marketing teams can look at the challenges posed by hybrid work as a blessing in disguise! Marketing, especially in a full-time office setting, can be a high-stress and fast-paced job, and the constant overscheduling and pressure can actually be a hindrance to creativity. Hybrid work, by its very nature, requires a little more flexibility and balance. Instead of everything having to be a meeting, a hybrid model reminds us that some things really can be emails. This leaves more time for the core work, rather than busy work, and gives marketers more room to do what they’re truly good at coming up with great ideas. Ensure that everyone has a clear role (which is even more crucial when hybrid work means less physical, in-the-moment supervision and contact) and knows who does what, and then let them do it!
The hybrid model also shines a light on the need for improved communications – which, let’s face it, is something we could all use!
Collaboration in a hybrid model takes a little more planning, which in turn requires communication that’s clearer and just better overall. It may be useful to put processes and workflows in place that emphasize clear, streamlined communication. While doing so, ensure that different work and communication styles are respected. It may be tempting to lean heavily on one strategy, like frequent video meetings and breakout groups, but try to remember that these don’t work for everyone – and those who feel uncomfortable or awkward may hold back from participating and sharing ideas.
Communications is closely related to the issue of timeliness. The work world may be changing, but the demand for fresh content and quick turnaround definitely isn’t! To stay on top of new trends and tap into the buzziest conversations, marketers still need to find ways to get content to market as quickly as possible, while it’s still relevant. Hybrid work models may pose a slight challenge to this kind of quick turnaround, since it tends to require more coordination and online collaboration. Marketing teams with great remote communications already set up, however, will be at an advantage when it comes to getting things done smoothly and in a timely manner that clients require.
Content, of course, is still king, and clients will be looking for great content that rises above the noise. With so much being digital and remote, the traditional avenues of creating exciting, engaging content might not be quite enough anymore. Instead, marketers will need something a little newer and fresher.
Interactivity is a major trend right now, especially with the rise of hybrid and remote setups. Having content presented to you is commonplace and can feel somewhat passive. By creating content that is more interactive, not only does it help to grab the audience’s attention, but it also helps marketers see more engagement and even gather more information. Consider incorporating elements like polls, questions and answers, games, choose-your-own options, multimedia, and others to keep audiences engaged even with a surplus of digital content and shorter attention spans.
For marketers, hybrid work means a few new adjustments to the old way of working. The same key principles are still the same as ever, though: on-trend and timely content creation, open communication, and collaborative environments that allow everyone to play to their strengths.
Most importantly of all: never be afraid to try new things, and your team will soar no matter where it’s physically located!
SEVEN WAYS ONLINE STOREFRONTS SUPPORT MARKETERS IN HYBRID WORKPLACES
Priority Group has been building online storefronts for over a decade. In the past year, many clients have talked to us about how they can make better use of their cloud-based solution to support business goals. Here are some of the ideas that got clients excited.
- Ordering branded promotional products and branded apparel, as well as print-on-demand
- Comprehensive tradeshow solutions, including booth storage, ordering swag, and running mail and email campaigns to drive booth traffic and nurture new leads
- Customer onboarding gift boxes
- Personalized sample kits
- Customizable social campaigns for distributors
- Employee onboarding and appreciation programs
- Local area marketing programs
If you are looking for new ways to empower your team and increase productivity, talk to your Priority Group account executive about our state-of-the-art storefront technology.