Solutions for Business Summer 2023

SUMMER 2023 7 SOLUTIONS WHO’S MINDING YOUR BUSINESS? Shane Murphy Customer Service Specialist Shane Murphy joined Panora Fiber in December 2022 after serving as a loan officer at First State Bank. He has a bachelor’s degree in finance and banking fromBuena Vista University. What are his main responsibilities as Customer Service Specialist? Murphy replied, “I primarily work with customers to set up new accounts and schedule appointments. I also answer questions from customers, whether they call or stop in. Each day is different, and I’m constantly learning new things.” Murphy continued, “I could talk all day about the teamhere at Panora Fiber. Everyone has been so helpful tome as the new employee, taking time to thoroughly explain all our services and programs so I can better serve our customers.” Outside of work, Murphy keeps busy. “Before I started at Panora Fiber, we welcomed a little boy into our family, so that has been another learning and growing experience. When I have some free time, I enjoy getting outside to play a round of golf or do some fishing,” he said. You Have Options in Hybrid Work Models According to a 2023 report by the job search platform Zippia, 74% of U.S. companies are using or plan to implement a permanent hybrid work model. Is yours one of them? There are five main types of hybrid work models—each with their own advantages and disadvantages—and what works for one company may not work for others. If you’re considering adopting a hybrid work model or adjusting your current policies, familiarize yourself with these options: Flexible Flexible hybrid work models allow employees to choose locations and working hours based on priorities. For example, one teammember may need solitude to focus on a project, so working from home makes sense. Other teammembers may need to attend meetings or training sessions, requiring in-office days. Employees who work in a flexible environment can choose what benefits them most on a daily or weekly basis. Fixed In fixed hybrid work models, the company establishes when employees can work remotely or in-office. They often dictate that certain teams must be in the office on specific days, whereas other employees come in on different days. This model may also include companies that allow everyone to work from home on predetermined days each week. Office-First An office-first approach to hybrid work expects employees to be on-site most of the time but offers flexibility to choose a few days for remote work. Remote-First The remote-first hybrid model allows employees to work outside of the office virtually all the time. Employees may occasionally travel to coworking spaces or other locations for team-building efforts, and the company may not even have dedicated office space. Designated Teams Organizations can also designate which teams work in the office and at home. Some work- places, like power plants or factories, require on-site workers. But administrative staff or sales teams may be able to easily work remotely.

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