Tackling a ‘Hushed Hybrid’ culture

HR professionals are at the forefront of navigating the evolving dynamics of workplace culture.

So, with more and more organizations increasing the number of in-office workdays, the rise of ‘hushed hybrid’ working – when front-line managers quietly allow employees to work remotely despite official Return to Office (RTO) mandates – presents a critical challenge that demands immediate attention.

The Current Landscape

In 2024, several major organizations, including Amazon, JPMorgan Chase, and AT&T, issued strict RTO mandates, requiring employees to return to the office five days a week.

These policies have sparked a significant pushback, with surveys revealing that a significant percentage of employees are either ignoring these mandates or considering leaving their roles due to the lack of flexibility.

This resistance underscores a growing disconnect between senior leadership and front-line management and employees.

The Risks of ‘Hushed Hybrid’ Practices

‘Hushed hybrid’ working may seem like a practical workaround for front-line managers aiming to balance employee satisfaction with company policies. However, this approach is unsustainable and fraught with risks:

• Employee Tensions: Allowing some team members to work remotely while others are required to be in the office can create feelings of unfairness and resentment.

• Erosion of Trust: The secrecy inherent in ‘hushed hybrid’ arrangements undermines transparency and can lead to a toxic workplace culture.

• Policy Compliance Issues: If managers are bypassing RTO policies, it raises concerns about adherence to other organizational policies, signaling potential governance issues.

The Role of HR in Bridging the Gap

HR professionals play a pivotal role in addressing the root causes of ‘hushed hybrid’ working. Here’s how you can act:

• Facilitate Open Dialogue: Create channels for middle managers to provide honest feedback to senior leadership about the challenges and employee sentiments surrounding RTO mandates.

• Reassess RTO Policies: Collaborate with leadership to evaluate the effectiveness of current RTO policies and explore more flexible, hybrid models that align with employee needs and organizational goals.

• Promote Transparency: Foster a culture of openness where policies are clearly communicated and consistently applied across all levels of the organization.

• Support Middle Managers: Equip managers with the tools and training needed to navigate the complexities of hybrid work arrangements while maintaining compliance with company policies.

Building a Sustainable Workplace Culture

The rise of ‘quiet’ workplace trends like ‘hushed hybrid’ working highlights the need for proactive measures to strengthen organizational culture. By addressing these challenges head-on, HR can help bridge the gap between policy and practice, ensuring that your organization remains an employer of choice in an increasingly competitive talent market.

If you would like to discuss how we can help coach your leaders in communication, as well as foster a culture of openness in your workplace, please get in touch with us.