Hybrid Working – The next chapter in our story

Like many businesses reflecting on the COVID pandemic, we have given a lot of thought to the way we work. In light of 2020, the world has now shifted outside of textbook office environments and redefined the standard ‘9-5’.

It has become clear that hybrid schemes have now grown from a trend and evolved into a key business asset to remaining competitive and client centric.

This is something that we have been aware of and monitored for a number of years, with 2024 becoming the right year for us to finally push forward into our new working world…

As of October 2024, we have moved our team to a hybrid working scheme; allowing for further working flexibility and availability for our clients.

We have shut our office in Truro, and have opted for a more collaborative space outside of the city centre. Moving from the traditional office environment of single desks and private offices to an open space for sharing ideas and working cohesively.

Our clients are very supportive of our advisors meeting them outside of the city centre, as it reduces travel and parking costs and allows for meetings inside the comfort of their own homes, businesses, or preferred location.

We also made this decision with the development of technology in mind as options for virtual meetings have grown immensely, and most clients are happy to meet via Zoom/ Teams, or even discuss day to day matters over the phone.

Each member of the team will work their four days in the week under the new hybrid model, with the option to work…

• From home.
• From our new office.
• At a joint meeting location

Over the time we spent researching this change, we assessed all potential impacts of moving to the hybrid model; finding many positives…

Client Impact

• Extended availability of their adviser and supporting team.
• Further flexibility for home & business meetings.
• Availability of virtual platforms for ongoing meetings.
• No requirement for travel to meet at a defined office location.

Employee Impact

• Reduced travel costs.
• Flexibility to work in a way that is most productive for them and our clients.
• Increase in team collaboration.
• Supported inclusion of individual needs.

Business Impact

• Increase in staff retention
• Increase in productivity output
• Reduction in fixed company costs.
• Increase in business adaptability.

Through our extensive planning and trials, we ensured to not ignore the negative factors that can come into play if hybrid schemes are poorly executed…

• ‘Always-On’ Culture.
• Physical Wellbeing Risks & Social Isolation.
• Trust & Procrastination.

Making this decision whilst recognising the potential for a negative impact on our team and business involved many meaningful conversations, consultations and trials, involving all parties associated with our business. We are confident in our ability to mitigate and reduce the potential for these impacts, by ensuring that we remain engaged and connected at all times.

We continue to assess where we are on our journey, as we evolve with the needs of our clients and team, and we aim ensure that we continue to develop and unlock opportunities for innovation, growth, and long-term success; for us, and most importantly, our clients.