The rise of hybrid working, a model where employees split their time between working from home and the office, has brought about significant changes in the workplace.

While offering flexibility and a better work-life balance, it has also introduced challenges, particularly in terms of social isolation and reduced physical activity. Understanding these issues is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate their negative effects on employee wellbeing and productivity.

Keep reading as we explain how hybrid working impacts social isolation and physical activity, offering strategies to maintain a supportive and productive environment.

Social isolation in the hybrid workplace

Social isolation has become a prominent issue with the adoption of hybrid working models. The traditional office environment naturally facilitates social interaction, which is essential for mental health and team cohesion. Daily face-to-face interactions, impromptu conversations, and collaborative work sessions help build relationships and a sense of belonging among employees. However, hybrid working often diminishes these opportunities, leading to feelings of isolation and disconnection.

Reduced opportunities for interaction

One of the primary reasons for increased social isolation is the reduction in spontaneous interactions. In a remote setting, casual conversations that occur naturally in an office are largely absent. These interactions, often referred to as “watercooler chats,” play a significant role in fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among employees. Without them, employees can feel detached from their colleagues and the organization. This has resulted in some organisations seeing initial productivity gains reduced and a move to insisting workers come back to the office.

Impact on mental health

The mental health implications of social isolation are profound. Loneliness and isolation can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. According to a study by Buffer, 19% of remote workers identified loneliness as their biggest struggle​. The lack of social interaction can also exacerbate stress levels, as employees may feel they have fewer outlets for sharing concerns and seeking support.

Team cohesion and collaboration

Social isolation can also negatively impact team cohesion and collaboration. Trust and effective teamwork often stem from strong interpersonal relationships built through regular interaction. When employees work in isolation, it becomes challenging to maintain the same level of trust and collaboration. This can lead to misunderstandings, reduced morale, and lower productivity and creates another driver for the return to the office.

Reduced physical activity in the hybrid work model

Another significant consequence of hybrid working is the reduction in physical activity. Traditional office environments typically involve more physical movement, such as commuting, walking to meetings, and moving around the office. In contrast, working from home can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle, as the need for movement decreases.

Increased sedentary behaviour

Working from home often means that employees spend prolonged periods sitting in front of their computers without the natural breaks that come with an office setting. This increased sedentary behaviour is associated with various health issues, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, and musculoskeletal problems. A study by the World Health Organization found that physical inactivity is a leading risk factor for global mortality​.

Lack of structured routine

The structure of a typical workday in an office includes scheduled breaks and the physical act of commuting, which encourages some level of physical activity. At home, the boundaries between work and personal time can blur, leading to longer working hours and fewer breaks. Without a structured routine, employees may neglect to incorporate physical activity into their day, further contributing to a sedentary lifestyle.

Impact on physical and mental health

The lack of physical activity not only affects physical health but also has mental health implications. Regular physical activity is known to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve mood, and enhance overall wellbeing. The absence of such activity can lead to increased stress, fatigue, and a decline in mental health​.

Strategies to mitigate social isolation and promote physical activity

To address these challenges, employers and employees can adopt several strategies to mitigate social isolation and promote physical activity in a hybrid working model.

Encouraging social interaction

1. Virtual social events: Organising virtual social events, such as online coffee breaks, team-building activities, and informal chat sessions, can help recreate the sense of community found in the office. These events provide opportunities for employees to connect on a personal level, reducing feelings of isolation.
2. Regular check-ins: Managers should schedule regular check-ins with their teams to discuss work progress and provide a platform for employees to share their thoughts and concerns. These check-ins can help maintain strong interpersonal relationships and ensure employees feel supported.
3. Collaboration tools: Utilising collaboration tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom can facilitate communication and collaboration. Encouraging their use for both work-related and casual conversations can help maintain a sense of connection among remote workers.

Promoting physical activity

1. Ergonomic workstations: Providing guidance on setting up ergonomic home workstations can help prevent musculoskeletal issues. Employers can offer virtual ergonomic assessments and provide equipment such as adjustable chairs and desks.
2. Encouraging breaks: Employers should encourage employees to take regular breaks throughout the day to move around and stretch. Implementing policies that promote short, frequent breaks can help reduce sedentary behaviour.
3. Wellness programs: Offering wellness programs that include physical activity challenges, virtual fitness classes, and resources on healthy living can motivate employees to stay active. Providing incentives for participation can further encourage engagement.
4. Flexible schedules: Allowing flexible work schedules can enable employees to incorporate physical activity into their day. For example, employees could be encouraged to take a mid-day exercise break or start their day with a walk.

Don’t ignore the challenges

Hybrid working models offer numerous benefits, including flexibility and improved work-life balance, however, they also present challenges related to social isolation and reduced physical activity.

By recognising these issues and implementing strategies to address them, employers can support the wellbeing of their hybrid workforce. Encouraging social interaction and promoting physical activity are essential steps in ensuring that employees remain healthy, engaged, and productive in a hybrid working environment. Through thoughtful planning and proactive measures, organizations can create a hybrid work model that fosters both professional success and personal wellbeing.

Cardinus’ Healthy Working Analytics is a tool designed to help you understand how these, and many other, issues are impacting the well-being and productivity of your workforce. Contact us to request a free trial.