Embracing hybrid working and reconnecting in the office

Four and a half years ago, Iridium’s office life looked very different. But as Teams calls became the norm and commutes shortened to just a stroll to the next room, our once-bustling office grew quieter. While remote working proved its merit, recent discussions sparked an appetite to bring back some of the office magic.

A team decision

After a team-wide conversation—because we’re all about collaborative decision-making—we’ve agreed to aim for everyone to be in the office together, ideally on the same days, to maximise knowledge sharing and culture, for at least two days a week. 

Why? Simply put, we like each other. We value the collaboration, creativity, and camaraderie that comes from working together in the same space. It’s an opportunity to strengthen the Iridium family feel, enjoy the undeniable benefits of face-to-face communication, and make the most of the talent and experience we have under one roof.

This is not about asking people to come in so they can be monitored, and flexibility will remain a priority, as we’ve always been understanding of personal commitments, whether they involve family, hobbies, or a longer commute. 

Matt Parker on hybrid and remote working

Matt, who has worked at Iridium since 2021, has been navigating the remote working world since the pandemic began. Here he shares some insightful thoughts on the pros, cons, and lessons learned:

The shift to remote working “I adapted quickly to remote working during lockdown. I’m self-motivated and found that it boosted my productivity. No hectic commute, fewer distractions—it just worked for me.”

But there’s something special about the office… “There’s a unique buzz in the office. The collaboration, sense of community, and the ability to just turn to someone for a quick brainstorm are things you can’t replicate remotely. While I’m productive at home, being with the team brings an energy and connection that’s invaluable.”

Hybrid is ideal, especially for new talent “I strongly believe hybrid working strikes the perfect balance. For junior employees, especially, the office is where they can soak up knowledge, learn how the business operates, and build those all-important professional relationships. Remote working doesn’t always offer the same exposure or opportunities to learn from experienced colleagues.”

Advice for new workers and businesses “For those starting their careers, my advice is simple: immerse yourself in the workplace. Learn from those around you, seek mentorship, and don’t stop asking questions. For employers, it’s crucial to foster a supportive, transparent environment where learning never ends.”

The challenge of workspace “Not everyone has a dedicated home office, and for younger employees living with family or in shared accommodation, it can be a real struggle. Working in your bedroom, for example, can blur the lines between work and relaxation, which isn’t healthy. Businesses need to consider these factors when shaping their policies.”

Why hybrid is here to stay

The results of our recent LinkedIn poll, where 58% of respondents said hybrid working is the sweet spot, resonate strongly with us. It's the perfect middle ground, offering the flexibility of remote work while retaining the cultural and collaborative benefits of the office. The best of both worlds.

Of course, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Some thrive in the structure of an office, while others excel working from home. As Matt so aptly put it: “Businesses demanding full-time office attendance are stuck in the past. The world has changed, and hybrid working is the way forward.”

At Iridium, we’re embracing this evolution with enthusiasm. Our move to at least two days in the office is more than a shift in policy—it’s a commitment to enabling connection, creativity, and growth for every member of our team. After all, the future of work isn’t about where we work—it’s about how we work, together.