Amidst the ongoing debate surrounding the advantages and drawbacks of the hybrid working model, Santosh Iyer, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Mercedes-Benz India Pvt. Ltd., has voiced his support for the format. As he prepares to take on the role of Managing Director & CEO of the company’s Indian operations next year, Iyer highlighted the success of Mercedes-Benz India in adopting a hybrid working arrangement during the pandemic, which he referred to as a “black swan event.”
In a LinkedIn post, Iyer acknowledged the current debate on the effectiveness of the hybrid work model. He personally advocated for the hybrid approach, citing Mercedes-Benz India’s exemplary achievements in sales growth, new business models, and significant product launches while embracing this working format. Recognizing the unique nature of the luxury car manufacturing industry, Iyer noted that the hybrid model may not be applicable to employees involved in the manufacturing operations. For these individuals, the company emphasizes a clear separation between work and personal time, fostering a work-life balance.
Iyer highlighted the transformative impact of the pandemic on the workplace, characterizing it as a catalyst for exploring new possibilities. He outlined key organizational changes, including digitization and remote working, prompted by the need to adapt to the evolving landscape. Addressing the question of how leaders can motivate employees in a hybrid work environment, Iyer emphasized two critical factors: trust and empowerment.
- **Trust:** Iyer stressed the importance of fostering mutual trust within the organization. At Mercedes-Benz India, a permanent hybrid model has been implemented, requiring employees from non-production functions to come to the office for a minimum of two days a week, with the flexibility to work remotely for the remaining three days. Building trust involves eliminating the need for strict time and attendance monitoring, allowing employees to feel in control rather than micromanaged. Trust played a vital role in unifying the workforce and instilling determination to face the uncertainties introduced by the pandemic.
- **Empowerment:** Iyer identified the challenge of maintaining trust in the face of uncertainty, often hindered by a desire for control, leading managers to micromanage activities and personally meet with employees. He advised encouraging flexibility, nurturing business acumen, and developing decision-making skills in the workforce. Iyer urged managers to take a leap of faith by trusting and empowering their teams, predicting increased commitment and higher productivity as a result.
