Successfully Running a Hybrid Team: Insights from CRKLR

In the modern business landscape, remote work has transformed from a temporary solution into a sustainable model for many companies. Here at CRKLR, we, a dynamic agency with a team of professionals spread across the UK, the USA, Portugal, Hong Kong, Lithuania and South Africa, serves as a prime example of how a hybrid work model can be both effective and efficient. While there are challenges such as knowledge sharing and fostering team culture, the right processes and tech tools can ensure seamless operation and success.

CRKLR has fully embraced a hybrid work model, leveraging the diversity and flexibility that it offers. With a portion of the team working from the office part-time and others fully remote, we enjoy the best of both worlds. Here are some key strategies that have contributed to our success:

1. Leveraging Technology for Communication and Collaboration

Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful hybrid team. We utilize a suite of tech tools to bridge the geographical gap between team members:

• Slack: For real-time messaging, quick updates, and maintaining an ongoing dialogue.
• Video Conferencing (Google Meet, Teams, Zoom etc): For video conferencing, virtual meetings, and maintaining face-to-face interaction.
• Project Management Tools (Click Up, Trello, Monday etc): For project management, task tracking, and ensuring everyone is aligned on their responsibilities and deadlines.
• Cloud Based Files (Google Workspace, Teams etc): For collaborative document creation, file sharing, and ensuring all team members have access to the latest information.

2. Establishing Clear Processes and Expectations

Clear processes and well-defined expectations are essential for hybrid teams to function smoothly. We have implemented several practices to ensure this:

• Regular Check-Ins: Daily stand-up meetings to discuss progress, address any issues, and set priorities for the day.
• Transparent Goals: Clear setting of goals and key performance indicators (KPIs) to keep everyone focused and accountable.

3. Fostering Team Culture

One of the challenges of hybrid work is building a strong team culture. We address this through:

• Recognition and Rewards: Acknowledging achievements and contributions through virtual shout-outs and rewards.
• Open Communication Channels: Encouraging open and honest communication to build trust and foster a sense of belonging.
• Stand-ups: We operate company team stand-ups Monday-Wednesday and use Thursday-Friday as client accelerators where we focus client teams on overcoming complex challenges, fostering a sense of achievement.

4. Promoting Knowledge Sharing and Professional Development

Ensuring that knowledge and expertise are shared across the team is vital for continuous growth. We promote this by:

• Ad hoc Training Sessions: Organizing training sessions to keep skills up-to-date.
• Constant Open Communication Channels: Providing space for the team to share fresh ideas, tech updates and the latest innovations for all to access.

5. Flexible Work Schedules

One of the significant advantages of the hybrid model is the flexibility it offers. CRKLR allows team members to work flexible hours, accommodating different time zones and personal commitments. This flexibility not only boosts productivity but also enhances job satisfaction and work-life balance.

6. Leveraging Multicultural Strengths

Our team is both multicultural and multinational, bringing a rich tapestry of cultural backgrounds and languages. Our multicultural team has been a significant asset, enabling the agency to:

• Service Clients Better: Utilize diverse languages and cultural insights to provide tailored services to a broad client base.
• Foster Innovation: Leverage different perspectives to drive creative solutions and innovative approaches.

CRKLR’s success as a hybrid team demonstrates that with the right processes and technology, companies and agencies can thrive in a mixed work environment. By leveraging effective communication tools, establishing clear processes, fostering team culture, promoting knowledge sharing, embracing flexibility, and capitalising on multicultural strengths, businesses can overcome the challenges and reap the benefits of a hybrid workforce. Our experience shows that a hybrid work model is not just a viable option but a strategic advantage in today’s globalised world.