Work seems to have changed forever, and a new approach has taken hold: the hybrid work model. As organizations adjust to this new reality, employee experience (EX) has emerged as a crucial driver of success. But what makes EX so essential in hybrid workplaces? Let’s dive into how it’s shaping the future of work in 2025.
Job-hopping used to be like switching up your hairstyle—a periodic change to shake things up. But today, it's much more frequent and intentional. In fact, Microsoft's 2022 Work Trend Index report reveals that 43% of employees are considering a change in employers this year. Nearly half your team may be weighing their options. Before rushing to make grand gestures, it's worth exploring the deeper reasons behind this shift and what it means for both employers and employees.
The pandemic didn't just change where we work; it reshaped how we value work itself. Employees are now evaluating their jobs through a new lens, and spoiler: it's not just about the paycheck.
53% of employees are more likely to prioritize health and well-being over work than before the pandemic. In other words, many would rather focus on wellness than chase career milestones.
The desire for work-life balance and flexibility is fueling the Great Reshuffle, particularly among Gen Z and Millennials. With 52% likely to switch jobs, it’s clear that the priorities have shifted far beyond what were once considered the ‘big asks’.
In the coming year, 51% of hybrid employees are considering going fully remote, while 57% of remote employees might explore hybrid set ups. It's like a new version of workplace musical chairs, only now it’s played on Zoom.
Middle management has always been challenging, but today it's a whole new level of complexity. These managers find themselves in the middle of a corporate tug-of-war that could give Olympic athletes pause.
Over half of managers feel their company's leadership is out of touch with employee expectations. It's like they're stuck in a game of telephone, but the message always seems to be "We need you back in the office full-time."
A staggering 74% of managers say they lack the influence or resources to implement changes for their team. They're expected to steer the ship, but someone else controls the wheel, map, and direction.
As we adjust to hybrid work, the role of the physical office is undergoing a transformation that even an HGTV makeover couldn’t match.
38% of hybrid employees are unsure when or why they need to be in the office. It’s no longer just about perks like free coffee – there needs to be a clear purpose for showing up.
Navigating hybrid meetings has become an exercise in flexibility, as we work to create an environment where everyone feels included, whether they’re sitting in the conference room or on their couch. It’s time to establish new norms that work for both worlds.
There was a time when receiving an email felt exciting. Now, it’s more like a flood of digital noise, threatening to overwhelm us.
Since February 2020, the average Teams user has experienced a staggering 252% increase in weekly meeting time. That's a lot of "Can you see my screen?" and "You're on mute!" moments adding up.
The workday has stretched beyond traditional hours, with more after-hours and weekend work creeping in. The divide between work and personal life is fading—much like your eyesight after a full day of screen time.
Who knew those casual elevator exchanges and coffee break small talk were the subtle glue holding workplace relationships together?
Only half of remote workers report having a strong connection with their immediate team. Building camaraderie is much harder when team bonding consists of virtual happy hours and breakout rooms.
Employees hired during the pandemic face an uphill battle in feeling truly integrated. It’s tough to feel part of the team when you’ve never met your coworkers face-to-face.
1. Retention Revolution: In a job seeker's market, EX is your secret weapon for keeping top talent.
Today's competitive job market is fierce on all sides, but employees have more options than ever before. A strong employee experience can be the key differentiator that keeps valuable team members from looking elsewhere. By focusing on EX, companies can create an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and motivated to stay long-term. This not only reduces turnover costs but also helps maintain institutional knowledge and team cohesion, which are crucial for organizational success in a hybrid work model.
2. Productivity Boost: Happy employees are productive employees, period.
When employees are satisfied with their work experience, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated. This increased engagement translates directly into higher productivity levels. In a hybrid work environment, where distractions and disconnection can be more prevalent, a positive EX can help maintain focus and drive. Moreover, employees who feel supported and valued are more likely to go above and beyond in their roles, leading to improved overall organizational performance.
3. Innovation Engine: A positive EX fosters the psychological safety needed for innovation.
Innovation thrives in environments where employees feel safe to take risks and share ideas. A strong focus on EX creates a culture of trust and openness, encouraging employees to think creatively and propose novel solutions. In a hybrid work setting, this psychological safety becomes even more critical as teams collaborate across physical and virtual spaces. By prioritizing EX, organizations can build a foundation for continuous innovation, helping them stay competitive in rapidly evolving markets.
4. Customer Impact: Employee experience directly impacts customer experience.
Satisfied employees are more likely to provide better service and create positive experiences for customers. When employees feel valued and supported, they are more inclined to go the extra mile for clients and customers. In a hybrid work model, where customer interactions may occur through various channels, a strong EX ensures that employees remain engaged and committed to delivering excellence. This ripple effect of positive EX translating into superior customer experience can significantly impact a company's bottom line and reputation.
5. Talent Magnet: A standout EX attracts top talent in a fiercely competitive hiring landscape.
In today's job market, candidates are not just looking for competitive salaries; they are seeking organizations that offer a superior work experience. Companies known for their excellent EX have a significant advantage in attracting high-caliber talent. This is particularly important in a hybrid work environment, where prospective employees may be considering opportunities from a wider geographical area. A reputation for prioritizing employee experience can make an organization stand out and become an employer of choice for top performers in their industry.
6. Adaptability Ace: Focusing on EX helps your organization stay agile in a rapidly changing world.
Organizations that prioritize EX are better equipped to navigate change and uncertainty. By creating a supportive environment, employees feel more comfortable adapting to new situations and embracing change. This adaptability is crucial in a hybrid work model, where flexibility and resilience are key. A strong EX foundation enables organizations to pivot quickly, implement new technologies, and adjust workflows more effectively, ensuring they remain competitive in an ever-evolving business landscape.
7. Wellbeing Focus: Prioritizing EX supports employee mental health and reduces burnout.
A comprehensive approach to EX focuses on employee well-being, which is especially important in a hybrid work environment. By addressing factors such as work-life balance, stress management, and mental health support, organizations can help prevent burnout and promote overall employee wellness. This not only leads to happier, healthier employees but also reduces absenteeism and healthcare costs. In the long run, a well-being-focused EX strategy contributes to a more sustainable and productive workforce.
8. Collaboration Driver: A strong EX fosters seamless collaboration between remote and in-office teams.
In a hybrid work model, effective collaboration between remote and in-office employees is crucial for success. A positive EX helps break down barriers and creates a sense of unity among team members, regardless of their physical location. By investing in tools, processes, and cultural initiatives that enhance the employee experience, organizations can facilitate better communication and cooperation across distributed teams. This improved collaboration leads to more innovative solutions, faster problem-solving, and stronger team relationships.
9. Engagement Engine: Improved EX leads to higher employee engagement and commitment.
When employees have a positive experience at work, they are more likely to be emotionally invested in their roles and the organization's success. This increased engagement translates into higher levels of discretionary effort, better quality of work, and a stronger sense of loyalty. In a hybrid work environment, where maintaining engagement can be challenging, a focus on EX becomes even more critical. Engaged employees are more likely to stay connected with their teams and the organization's goals, even when working remotely.
10. Culture Champion: A focus on EX helps maintain and evolve your company culture in a hybrid world.
Maintaining a strong company culture can be challenging in a hybrid work environment, but a focus on EX can help bridge this gap. By prioritizing employee experience, organizations can reinforce their values and cultural norms across both physical and virtual workspaces. This consistency in experience helps employees feel connected to the company's mission and their colleagues, regardless of where they're working. Additionally, a strong EX focus allows organizations to evolve their culture to meet the changing needs of a hybrid workforce, ensuring that the company remains attractive to both current and prospective employees.
You might be wondering, "This is all well and good but why should I care about all this?" Well, let’s break it down:
Employee Retention: Content employees stay longer, and in today’s competitive job market, that’s invaluable. Your employees and you have made investments in one another. It makes sense to protect that investment. The costs to replace are so much higher than we all realize.
Productivity: Engaged employees are more productive, directly impacting your bottom line. It’s simple: happy teams mean better results. Think about this–how much more productive were you earlier in your career when you were actually engaged in your work?
Innovation: When employees feel valued and heard, they're more likely to share ideas and take risks. Innovation doesn't happen in a vacuum (or a soul-crushing work environment). When people make the conscious decision to spend their discretionary time bettering the company, you have something special. Innovation is 11X more likely with engaged people.
Customer Satisfaction: There’s a direct link between employee satisfaction and customer happiness. When your team thrives, so do your customers—it’s the business circle of life and a critical cycle engaged employees can create.
Employer Branding: In an era where Glassdoor and LinkedIn shape reputations, your employee experience defines your brand. Don’t become the company everyone loves to rant about online.
Here are practical steps CX Pilots has used successfully with clients that you can take now to enhance the experience for your hybrid workforce:
The move to hybrid work isn’t just about changing our workspace—it’s about redefining how we work all together. By prioritizing employee experience in this transformation, organizations have the opportunity to adapt and excel in this new era. So, here’s to the future of work—may it be flexible, fulfilling, and deeply human-centered.
If you're interested in how CX Pilots can help elevate your employee experience and engagement strategies, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Work seems to have changed forever, and a new approach has taken hold: the hybrid work model. As organizations adjust to this new reality, employee experience (EX) has emerged as a crucial driver of success. But what makes EX so essential in hybrid workplaces? Let’s dive into how it’s shaping the future of work in 2025.
Job-hopping used to be like switching up your hairstyle—a periodic change to shake things up. But today, it's much more frequent and intentional. In fact, Microsoft's 2022 Work Trend Index report reveals that 43% of employees are considering a change in employers this year. Nearly half your team may be weighing their options. Before rushing to make grand gestures, it's worth exploring the deeper reasons behind this shift and what it means for both employers and employees.
The pandemic didn't just change where we work; it reshaped how we value work itself. Employees are now evaluating their jobs through a new lens, and spoiler: it's not just about the paycheck.
53% of employees are more likely to prioritize health and well-being over work than before the pandemic. In other words, many would rather focus on wellness than chase career milestones.
The desire for work-life balance and flexibility is fueling the Great Reshuffle, particularly among Gen Z and Millennials. With 52% likely to switch jobs, it’s clear that the priorities have shifted far beyond what were once considered the ‘big asks’.
In the coming year, 51% of hybrid employees are considering going fully remote, while 57% of remote employees might explore hybrid set ups. It's like a new version of workplace musical chairs, only now it’s played on Zoom.
Middle management has always been challenging, but today it's a whole new level of complexity. These managers find themselves in the middle of a corporate tug-of-war that could give Olympic athletes pause.
Over half of managers feel their company's leadership is out of touch with employee expectations. It's like they're stuck in a game of telephone, but the message always seems to be "We need you back in the office full-time."
A staggering 74% of managers say they lack the influence or resources to implement changes for their team. They're expected to steer the ship, but someone else controls the wheel, map, and direction.
As we adjust to hybrid work, the role of the physical office is undergoing a transformation that even an HGTV makeover couldn’t match.
38% of hybrid employees are unsure when or why they need to be in the office. It’s no longer just about perks like free coffee – there needs to be a clear purpose for showing up.
Navigating hybrid meetings has become an exercise in flexibility, as we work to create an environment where everyone feels included, whether they’re sitting in the conference room or on their couch. It’s time to establish new norms that work for both worlds.
There was a time when receiving an email felt exciting. Now, it’s more like a flood of digital noise, threatening to overwhelm us.
Since February 2020, the average Teams user has experienced a staggering 252% increase in weekly meeting time. That's a lot of "Can you see my screen?" and "You're on mute!" moments adding up.
The workday has stretched beyond traditional hours, with more after-hours and weekend work creeping in. The divide between work and personal life is fading—much like your eyesight after a full day of screen time.
Who knew those casual elevator exchanges and coffee break small talk were the subtle glue holding workplace relationships together?
Only half of remote workers report having a strong connection with their immediate team. Building camaraderie is much harder when team bonding consists of virtual happy hours and breakout rooms.
Employees hired during the pandemic face an uphill battle in feeling truly integrated. It’s tough to feel part of the team when you’ve never met your coworkers face-to-face.
1. Retention Revolution: In a job seeker's market, EX is your secret weapon for keeping top talent.
Today's competitive job market is fierce on all sides, but employees have more options than ever before. A strong employee experience can be the key differentiator that keeps valuable team members from looking elsewhere. By focusing on EX, companies can create an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and motivated to stay long-term. This not only reduces turnover costs but also helps maintain institutional knowledge and team cohesion, which are crucial for organizational success in a hybrid work model.
2. Productivity Boost: Happy employees are productive employees, period.
When employees are satisfied with their work experience, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated. This increased engagement translates directly into higher productivity levels. In a hybrid work environment, where distractions and disconnection can be more prevalent, a positive EX can help maintain focus and drive. Moreover, employees who feel supported and valued are more likely to go above and beyond in their roles, leading to improved overall organizational performance.
3. Innovation Engine: A positive EX fosters the psychological safety needed for innovation.
Innovation thrives in environments where employees feel safe to take risks and share ideas. A strong focus on EX creates a culture of trust and openness, encouraging employees to think creatively and propose novel solutions. In a hybrid work setting, this psychological safety becomes even more critical as teams collaborate across physical and virtual spaces. By prioritizing EX, organizations can build a foundation for continuous innovation, helping them stay competitive in rapidly evolving markets.
4. Customer Impact: Employee experience directly impacts customer experience.
Satisfied employees are more likely to provide better service and create positive experiences for customers. When employees feel valued and supported, they are more inclined to go the extra mile for clients and customers. In a hybrid work model, where customer interactions may occur through various channels, a strong EX ensures that employees remain engaged and committed to delivering excellence. This ripple effect of positive EX translating into superior customer experience can significantly impact a company's bottom line and reputation.
5. Talent Magnet: A standout EX attracts top talent in a fiercely competitive hiring landscape.
In today's job market, candidates are not just looking for competitive salaries; they are seeking organizations that offer a superior work experience. Companies known for their excellent EX have a significant advantage in attracting high-caliber talent. This is particularly important in a hybrid work environment, where prospective employees may be considering opportunities from a wider geographical area. A reputation for prioritizing employee experience can make an organization stand out and become an employer of choice for top performers in their industry.
6. Adaptability Ace: Focusing on EX helps your organization stay agile in a rapidly changing world.
Organizations that prioritize EX are better equipped to navigate change and uncertainty. By creating a supportive environment, employees feel more comfortable adapting to new situations and embracing change. This adaptability is crucial in a hybrid work model, where flexibility and resilience are key. A strong EX foundation enables organizations to pivot quickly, implement new technologies, and adjust workflows more effectively, ensuring they remain competitive in an ever-evolving business landscape.
7. Wellbeing Focus: Prioritizing EX supports employee mental health and reduces burnout.
A comprehensive approach to EX focuses on employee well-being, which is especially important in a hybrid work environment. By addressing factors such as work-life balance, stress management, and mental health support, organizations can help prevent burnout and promote overall employee wellness. This not only leads to happier, healthier employees but also reduces absenteeism and healthcare costs. In the long run, a well-being-focused EX strategy contributes to a more sustainable and productive workforce.
8. Collaboration Driver: A strong EX fosters seamless collaboration between remote and in-office teams.
In a hybrid work model, effective collaboration between remote and in-office employees is crucial for success. A positive EX helps break down barriers and creates a sense of unity among team members, regardless of their physical location. By investing in tools, processes, and cultural initiatives that enhance the employee experience, organizations can facilitate better communication and cooperation across distributed teams. This improved collaboration leads to more innovative solutions, faster problem-solving, and stronger team relationships.
9. Engagement Engine: Improved EX leads to higher employee engagement and commitment.
When employees have a positive experience at work, they are more likely to be emotionally invested in their roles and the organization's success. This increased engagement translates into higher levels of discretionary effort, better quality of work, and a stronger sense of loyalty. In a hybrid work environment, where maintaining engagement can be challenging, a focus on EX becomes even more critical. Engaged employees are more likely to stay connected with their teams and the organization's goals, even when working remotely.
10. Culture Champion: A focus on EX helps maintain and evolve your company culture in a hybrid world.
Maintaining a strong company culture can be challenging in a hybrid work environment, but a focus on EX can help bridge this gap. By prioritizing employee experience, organizations can reinforce their values and cultural norms across both physical and virtual workspaces. This consistency in experience helps employees feel connected to the company's mission and their colleagues, regardless of where they're working. Additionally, a strong EX focus allows organizations to evolve their culture to meet the changing needs of a hybrid workforce, ensuring that the company remains attractive to both current and prospective employees.
You might be wondering, "This is all well and good but why should I care about all this?" Well, let’s break it down:
Employee Retention: Content employees stay longer, and in today’s competitive job market, that’s invaluable. Your employees and you have made investments in one another. It makes sense to protect that investment. The costs to replace are so much higher than we all realize.
Productivity: Engaged employees are more productive, directly impacting your bottom line. It’s simple: happy teams mean better results. Think about this–how much more productive were you earlier in your career when you were actually engaged in your work?
Innovation: When employees feel valued and heard, they're more likely to share ideas and take risks. Innovation doesn't happen in a vacuum (or a soul-crushing work environment). When people make the conscious decision to spend their discretionary time bettering the company, you have something special. Innovation is 11X more likely with engaged people.
Customer Satisfaction: There’s a direct link between employee satisfaction and customer happiness. When your team thrives, so do your customers—it’s the business circle of life and a critical cycle engaged employees can create.
Employer Branding: In an era where Glassdoor and LinkedIn shape reputations, your employee experience defines your brand. Don’t become the company everyone loves to rant about online.
Here are practical steps CX Pilots has used successfully with clients that you can take now to enhance the experience for your hybrid workforce:
The move to hybrid work isn’t just about changing our workspace—it’s about redefining how we work all together. By prioritizing employee experience in this transformation, organizations have the opportunity to adapt and excel in this new era. So, here’s to the future of work—may it be flexible, fulfilling, and deeply human-centered.
If you're interested in how CX Pilots can help elevate your employee experience and engagement strategies, don’t hesitate to reach out.
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