How to Stay Professional in a Hybrid Office Without Losing Your Mind
Today, the office is a strange mix of people in sweats, people on Zoom calls, and that one coworker who still wears a full suit to work. Hybrid employment is here to stay, but what are the rules? Let’s just say they’re changing. Here are some tips for getting used to the new normal without becoming that person, whether you’re signing in from your sofa or going to the office twice a week.
The Big Camera-On Argument
We’ve all been there: in the middle of a meeting with messy hair and bad lighting. But here’s a good rule of thumb: Turn on your camera if you’re on a call with a client or a team meeting. It’s just good manners. What if it’s a huge gathering where everyone is there and you’re just there? You might get a break. But you should always verify your background first. No one needs to see your dirty laundry.
The Hybrid Dress Code (Yes, It Exists)
Pyjama chic on remote days? Not so fast. Wear clothes that fit your audience. If you have a video call, at least put on a nice shirt (sweatpants should stay beneath the desk, where they belong). Days in the office? Go with the flow. You shouldn’t wear flip-flops to work if it’s business casual, even if you could.
Follow the schedule (time zones are real)
Your teammate may not work best around 11 PM, even though you do. Make your limits clear. Use the “schedule send” tool if you need to send emails late at night. And for the sake of productivity, don’t anticipate quick responses on Slack at 7 AM.
The Mute Button Is Your Best Friend
Dogs bark, kids scream, and roommates blast music. These things happen all the time. When you’re not talking, turn off your sound. And please, please, don’t chew on the mic. No one wants to hear ASMR of your lunch.
Keeping meetings clean (both in person and online)
- Be on time. “Joining late” is the same as “showing up with Starbucks.”
- Don’t do more than one thing at a time. We can tell you’re not paying attention if you’re typing loudly while on the phone.
- In the office? Don’t take up too much room. You can’t claim a throne if you have a hot desk.
The Ghost vs. The Over-Communicator
Some folks send you 10 messages in a row on Slack. Some people disappear for days. Find a happy medium. If you’re working from home, make sure to provide your team quick updates so they don’t have to guess. If you’re at the office, don’t assume everyone got your email. Follow up if it’s important.
Hybrid does not mean invisible
Just because something is out of sight doesn’t imply it’s out of mind. Talk about things around the virtual water cooler. A short “How was your weekend?” message keeps things real. And while you’re at work, don’t forget about coworkers who work from home. Include them in chats.
The Rule of Flexibility That Isn’t Written Down
Life happens some days. Is your kid sick? Is the internet down? Talk to each other early. Most teams are fine with being flexible, as long as you don’t ghost.
Last thought: Don’t be the office Troll: Hybrid work is still a social experiment. Be nice, be patient, and for heaven’s sake, don’t be the person who leaves their mic on in the toilet.
