Hybrid Working: A Threat to Young Workers’ Careers and Mental Health? | Natasha Devon MBE

Is hybrid working stunting the growth of your youngest employees?
Nearly half of 18–24-year-olds say it’s hurting their workplace relationships and mental health!
In this episode of The Cashflow Show Podcast, host Clayton M. Coke interviews Natasha Devon, MBE, writer, broadcaster, and mental health activist, to explore new research from the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH). Natasha unpacks why 48% of young workers struggle to build relationships and 17% report worsening mental health in hybrid setups, and how businesses can adapt.
Learn how to redesign hybrid models to support young workers with structured feedback, mentoring, and collaboration opportunities, ensuring they thrive in today’s workplace.
Tune in to discover practical strategies to boost engagement, retention, and mental well-being for the next generation of talent, and visit IOSH for actionable resources.

Key Discussion Points

• Rise of Hybrid Working: Accelerated by COVID lockdowns, hybrid models benefit established workers but pose challenges for younger employees entering the workforce (01:19–02:13).
• Relationship Struggles: 48% of 18–24-year-olds find it hard to build workplace relationships due to limited face-to-face interaction in hybrid setups (02:39–03:07).
• Mentoring Gaps: Only 16% of entry-level staff receive regular mentoring, leaving young workers without critical guidance to learn the ropes (03:36–09:08).
• Mental Health Impact: 17% of young workers report worsened mental health, with 50% citing cost of living as a top stressor, compounded by isolation and lack of feedback (05:46–07:40).
• Solutions for Equity: Structured check-ins (desired by 45%), in-person mentoring, and face-to-face collaboration (wanted by 35%) can support young workers’ growth (04:27–14:44).
• Employer Mindset Shift: Open dialogue and anonymous feedback systems can address young workers’ needs, breaking from outdated top-down management styles (09:36–11:04).
• Cost of Living Concerns: Financial stress affects 50% of young workers; employers can help with solutions like subsidized transport or community partnerships (11:33–12:20).
• Collaboration Challenges: Hybrid setups scatter teams, but hot-desking or rented communal spaces can foster in-person collaboration (14:44–15:40).

Key Takeaways

• Hybrid working, while beneficial for some, hinders young workers’ ability to form relationships and access mentoring, impacting their career growth.
• Mental health suffers due to isolation, lack of feedback, and financial stress, with 17% of young workers reporting a decline in well-being.
• Structured weekly check-ins, in-person collaboration, and mentoring are critical to supporting young workers in hybrid environments.
• Employers must prioritize open dialogue and anonymous feedback to understand and address young workers’ unique needs.
• Creative solutions like subsidized transport or shared workspaces can alleviate financial and collaboration challenges, boosting retention.

Notable Quotes

• “48% of 18–24-year-olds struggle to build workplace relationships. That’s almost half.” – Natasha Devon (03:07)
• “When you don’t name something, it becomes invisible. Young people need that constant constructive feedback to learn the ropes.” – Natasha Devon (03:36)
• “If you’re doing everything remotely, potentially four of the five key human psychological needs are suffering.” – Natasha Devon (06:15)
• “Short-termist thinking like using AI or online training saves money now, but mental health issues cost more down the line.” – Natasha Devon (07:10)
• “The number one fear of employees is if I talk about my struggles, it’ll affect my career progression. Anonymous feedback removes that fear.” – Natasha Devon (16:11)

Actionable Insights for Businesses

1. Implement Structured Check-Ins: Schedule regular, short feedback sessions (2–3 times weekly) to provide young workers with clear guidance and reduce isolation.
2. Prioritize In-Person Mentoring: Carve out face-to-face training time, especially for entry-level staff, to replicate informal guidance lost in hybrid setups.
3. Foster Collaboration: Use hot-desking or rented communal spaces for periodic in-person team meetings to boost collaboration (desired by 35% of workers).
4. Address Financial Stress: Offer cost-of-living support like subsidized transport or local business partnerships to ease financial burdens and improve morale.
5. Encourage Open Dialogue: Create anonymous feedback systems to allow young workers to voice concerns without fear of career repercussions, fostering trust.

Resources

• Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH): Visit www.iosh.com for tips on supporting young workers in hybrid workplaces.
• Where’s Your Head At? Campaign: Learn about Natasha Devon’s mental health advocacy at www.wheresyourheadat.org.
• Learn about Natasha Devon’s show on LBC

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