Exploring Communication and Well-Being Challenges of Young Professionals in a Hybrid Work Environment in Finland

Abstract

Before the pandemic, hybrid work was already common in the IT sector. During the pandemic, most companies continued their operations exclusively through remote work. Later, many companies adopted a new model of work culture, which is the hybrid work model. Nowadays, companies are offering hybrid work as a benefit, which is visible in the job postings in Finland. This bachelor’s thesis aims to explore the communication and well-being challenges faced by young employees in Finland's hybrid work environment. HAMK Career Services has commissioned this thesis.

Under the literature review section, two main theories were explained: the Socio-technical systems theory and the boundary and border theory. Additionally, the benefits and challenges of hybrid work, as well as the communication and well-being issues associated with hybrid work, were also discussed.

The research methodology employed in this study was qualitative, involving semi-structured interviews. This approach was suitable for understanding the interviewees' real-life experiences. A total of eleven participants were interviewed. Seven HAMK Alumni who have worked in a hybrid mode were interviewed, and four participants were represented as employers who directly manage their employees. Later, a thematic analysis was performed to classify the challenges, which helped identify common patterns.

The significant challenges identified were communication barriers, restrictive hybrid policies, issues related to well-being and burnout, technical barriers, challenges to diversity and inclusion, and difficulties with team collaboration. As a result, several recommendations were made, including providing training for hybrid communication, offering advanced Finnish courses, organising hybrid internship opportunities, hosting webinars and workshops on Finnish culture, and establishing workshops on mental well-being.

To conclude, hybrid work poses advantages and disadvantages. Clear and concise communication, as well as well-being practices, are crucial in the hybrid work model. To succeed in a hybrid work environment, employees and employers must collaborate to foster mutual trust and understanding.