Examining the impact of hybrid working practices on employees and organisational culture.

Abstract

The impact of hybrid working practices on employees and organisational culture had become a pressing concern for organisations in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This research aimed to examine the implications of hybrid working on employee behaviour and organisational culture, particularly within the context of a South African university's Professional Services. The study employed a quantitative research design with a pragmatic worldview, focusing on understanding how employees had adjusted to the new work model and quantifying the impact on productivity, job satisfaction, engagement, and leadership practices. The literature review delved into organisational culture theories, such as Schein's model, to better define and comprehend the components that shape an organisation's culture. Additionally, the study drew on Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs to explore how hybrid working may satisfy different employee needs and influence motivation levels. Previous research showed that hybrid working had both positive and negative impacts on organisational culture, with increased flexibility and improved work-life balance as potential positives, while reduced face-to-face interaction and communication challenges hindered culture cohesion. The research methodology involved pragmatism looking at a sample of 118 employees in the university's Professional Services who had experienced hybrid working. Data was collected through questionnaires administered via school notices to gauge the correlation between hybrid work structure and organisational culture. The outcome of the research showed that hybrid working certainly does have an impact on organisational culture. While this is a complex topic in that, it is dependent on an organisation and its readiness for hybrid work set ups, that is what determines the impact on culture. Factors affecting hybrid work were identified and were very much in line with the secondary research. As new work structures continue to emerge, this study highlights the importance of understanding the implications of hybrid working on employee well-being and organisational culture from a South African perspective.