Hybrid After the Pandemic
When hybrid work swept through marketing, media and communications during the pandemic, it felt like the future of work had arrived. Five years later, things are shifting. Employers are calling people back into the office more often, while professionals are still fighting for flexibility.
What Employers Expect
Most marketing and communications roles now advertise as hybrid, but the reality is often three or four days in the office. Leaders argue that culture, collaboration and creativity are stronger when teams are physically together.
What Talent Wants
Candidates are asking sharper questions about hybrid arrangements. They want clear expectations before applying, and they want to know they will be judged on results, not office presence. Employers, meanwhile, are looking for adaptability and an understanding of the value of in-person collaboration.
Finding the Middle Ground
The hybrid hangover is about balance. Job seekers often walk away quickly if flexibility is not genuine. Employers grow frustrated when team cohesion breaks down. For marketing, media and communications professionals, the key is to be upfront. If you value flexibility, raise it early. At the same time, be ready to show how you collaborate effectively from home and why productivity is not tied to location.
Hybrid work is not disappearing, but the rules are evolving. The best results will come when both sides focus on trust, culture and performance rather than simply counting office days.
Do you think hybrid policies are improving collaboration, or creating tension? Do professionals in marketing, media and comms need to come together in person to be effective?
