The Rise of “Hushed Hybrid” Work Agreements in Ireland
Recent research from CIPD, the professional body for the HR industry, highlights a growing
trend among Irish employers: tackling unofficial “hushed hybrid” work agreements. These
informal arrangements occur when local managers approve individual work schedules that
deviate from official company policy.
Centralising Work Arrangements
According to preliminary findings from CIPD’s annual HR Practices in Ireland survey,
conducted by the Kemmy Business School at the University of Limerick, there has been a
10% increase in companies centralising decision-making on flexible and remote working
policies. Employers are increasingly moving away from allowing local managers to
determine work arrangements. The survey found that hybrid work continues to be a popular model, with 28% of organisations reporting higher productivity under hybrid conditions. However, the same
percentage observed lower productivity with fully remote work. Many organisations require
employees to be on-site two or three days per week. While 15% of companies increased the
number of mandatory on-site days in 2024, only 11% plan to do so in 2025.
Challenges of “Hushed Hybrid” Deals
Mary Connaughton, Director of CIPD in Ireland, warned of the potential issues posed by
“hushed hybrid” agreements. These arrangements, while often made to accommodate
individual employee needs, can lead to dissatisfaction among staff who must adhere more
strictly to company policies. Such discrepancies can foster perceptions of inequality,
particularly if parents are perceived to have more flexibility than those without caregiving
responsibilities. “Managers need to be briefed on how to explain the rationale for company policies, the level of flexibility allowed, and how to address legitimate concerns from employees,” Connaughton emphasized.
The Importance of Clear Policies and Procedures
This research underscores the critical need for companies to have robust and transparent
policies governing remote and hybrid work. Clear procedures help ensure consistency,
fairness, and compliance, reducing the risk of dissatisfaction and conflict among employees.
Proper training for managers on implementing and communicating these policies is equally
essential. Having well-defined policies not only helps organisations navigate the evolving landscape of work arrangements but also supports employee engagement and productivity. As Irish
businesses continue to adapt to new ways of working, ensuring that all stakeholders
understand and adhere to formal guidelines will be key to long-term success.
