Leading Hybrid Teams: Five Must-Have Skills for Success

GLG Insights | Juliana Marques | December 24, 2024

The rise of hybrid work models—where employees split their time between remote and in-office settings—has transformed how teams collaborate and operate. According to a report by McKinsey, 58% of U.S. workers can work remotely at least part-time, and 35% have the option to work from home full-time. While hybrid work presents many benefits, it also requires leaders to develop specific skills to ensure team success. This article explores five critical skills every leader must have to effectively lead hybrid teams, backed by data, surveys, and expert insights.

1. Building Trust and Inclusion

Hybrid teams often struggle with feelings of exclusion, particularly remote employees. Leaders must foster a sense of belonging and create an environment where team members trust one another. According to research, hybrid employees are up to 4.4 times more engaged when leaders prioritize trust and visibility within the team​. Regular check-ins, equal treatment of remote and in-person workers, and using tools like video meetings help build psychological safety and inclusion.

2. Empathy and Communication

Effective hybrid leaders should prioritize empathy by actively listening to their team's needs and challenges. 97% of workers consider it an essential leadership trait, but only 45% feel their managers demonstrate it​. Leaders should maintain open communication channels, including personal one-on-one meetings, to ensure team members feel valued​. Pulse surveys are also useful tools for tracking team morale and well-being.

3. Driving Accountability and Focus

In hybrid work environments, the focus should be on outcomes rather than time spent in the office. Leaders should establish clear expectations and measure success based on results. A 2023 Global Leadership Forecast revealed that 58% of leaders work in hybrid or remote setups, but only 27% feel confident in their ability to manage these teams effectively. Setting SMART goals and encouraging accountability without micromanaging can improve team productivity​.

4. Fostering Innovation and Adaptability

Leaders must promote a culture of innovation and adaptability to keep hybrid teams motivated. By encouraging creative problem-solving and adaptability, leaders can help teams navigate the complexities of a hybrid environment. Innovation thrives when team members feel safe to contribute ideas without fear of failure, an essential trait for hybrid leadership.

5. Creating Strong Team Culture

Hybrid teams require leaders to nurture a strong, cohesive culture, across physical and virtual spaces. Leaders must be deliberate in organizing team-building activities and meetings that bridge the gap between remote and on-site employees, ensuring everyone feels connected to the organization’s goals​.

Embrace the Future of Work

As hybrid work continues to develop, so must the leadership skills required to effectively manage these teams. From mastering communication and emotional intelligence to embracing technology and flexibility, today’s leaders must be equipped with a robust toolkit for navigating the complexities of hybrid work. By fostering a trust-based, flexible environment and remaining adaptable, leaders can ensure that their hybrid teams thrive.

Ready to elevate your hybrid team’s performance? At Glass Ladder Group, we specialize in empowering leaders to navigate the complexities of today’s dynamic work environments. Whether you're looking to build stronger communication, foster trust, or drive innovation, we provide tailored strategies to help you succeed. Reach out to Glass Ladder Group for expert guidance on leading hybrid teams and unlocking your organization’s full potential.