Justin Tobin, the President and founder of Gather, is redefining the concept of a hybrid work model by advocating for a more inclusive, diverse, and adaptive approach. Tobin believes that effective leaders and organizations should view hybrid as an opportunity to diversify their businesses rather than a battle with employees over where work takes place. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the varying nature of work across roles, departments, and projects, and moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach to embrace diversity in employment types such as full-time employees, agency partners, and independents.
Tobin suggests that leaders should involve their workforce in decision-making processes to shape a tailored hybrid/remote team model that goes beyond physical workspace and delves into the identities and contributions of the organization. By taking a collaborative bottom-up approach, companies can ensure a more inclusive, effective, and sustainable hybrid model for all parties involved. This approach fosters a dynamic and agile workforce that can thrive in evolving and unpredictable times.
Tobin views the concept of “hybrid” as extending beyond modern notions of remote or flexible work arrangements to permeate the very processes that drive organizational success. He believes that organizations should take a flexible approach with clients, creating adaptable, comprehensive solutions according to clients’ needs. Additionally, Tobin highlights the pivotal role of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) in the evolving hybrid landscape, urging executives to prioritize solutions that align with the intricate composition of their people and processes.
As traditional workforce structures evolve, organizations are increasingly adopting hybrid workforce models that blend full-time employees and contract workers. Research shows that savvy leaders are incorporating contract employees into their organizations while managing the blended workforce as one cohesive group. This shift towards a hybrid workforce model reflects a return to a preindustrial era where independence was the standard modus operandi. Embracing a workforce that spans from full-time employees to freelancers allows organizations to tap into the best talent for each role, easing financial burdens and setting companies up for success.
Tobin encourages leaders to move away from absolutes, such as strict return-to-office mandates, and instead embrace the diverse and nuanced elements of their organizations. By empowering employees to actively shape an optimal work model that considers all facets of hybrid work, companies can create a more fulfilling and successful work environment. Tobin believes that by relinquishing some control and aligning leadership examples with the ever-changing values of the workforce, companies can foster happiness and productivity within their organizations.
Overall, Tobin’s approach to hybrid work models focuses on inclusivity, diversity, and adaptability. By reconceptualizing the traditional notions of hybrid work and involving employees in decision-making processes, organizations can create a more effective and sustainable work model that embraces all facets of hybrid work. Embracing a workforce that spans from full-time employees to freelancers allows organizations to tap into the best talent for each role, easing financial burdens and setting companies up for success.
