Fostering alignment in the hybrid workplace: bridging the gap between employee experience and expectations

Abstract

This research examines the congruence of employee experiences with expectations in hybrid work environments. Grounded in the social exchange theory, reciprocal exchanges between employees and employers are proposed to be influenced by communication, organisational culture, and technological infrastructure. A qualitative methodology was utilised, encompassing 22 semi-structured interviews with participants from various sectors in Thailand, including the healthcare, retail, and telecommunications sectors. Through thematic analysis, salient factors impacting this congruence were discerned, specifically transparent communication, technological infrastructure, organisational culture, and work-life equilibrium. Furthermore, adaptive management strategies such as flexible work policies and supportive leadership were determined to significantly augment employee experience and organisational allegiance. The findings of this research furnish pragmatic insights for policymakers, human resource practitioners, and organisational leaders regarding the cultivation of resilient, inclusive, and high-performing hybrid work environments.