Sharon Wu
| Special to USA TODAY
The traditional 9-to-5 office routine is fading fast. A 2024 SHRM report found that 65% of employers now offer hybrid work options, reflecting a shift in how companies and employees define productivity.
At the same time, hybrid work has become a top priority for many employees. SHRM also reports that about half of remote or hybrid workers would consider job hunting if required to return to the office — a signal that flexibility is more than a perk. It’s increasingly seen as a key factor in focus, engagement and retention.
“Hybrid workplace culture is gaining traction because it offers the best of both worlds: flexibility for employees and meaningful collaboration for teams,” says Washington, D.C.-based HR consultant Kim Keating.
As top companies experiment with different hybrid structures, five models are rising to the top. From predictable split-week plans to fully employee-driven schedules, each offers a different balance of flexibility, structure and control. Understanding how these models work — and how to advocate for the one that fits you best — can help you thrive in today’s evolving workplace.
Workers prefer flexibility as companies roll out return-to-office mandates
Nearly a quarter of workers say their companies rolled out a return-to-office mandate in the past year, despite a preference for remote, hybrid work.
Scripps News
1. Split-week model
In the split-week model, employees work in the office on set days and off-site the rest of the week. Teams often plan their schedules so everyone comes in on the same days.
“Split-week is popular because it offers predictability, structure and flexibility,” says Keating. This model is a good fit for mid-sized organizations that value teamwork. Companies with newer employees needing hands-on guidance often benefit as well. It gives employees predictable schedules they can plan their lives around, while ensuring teams are together when it matters most.
2. Alternating days model
According to Keating, the alternating days model has teams rotating on which days they come into the office. For example, Team A might work on-site on Mondays and Wednesdays, while Team B comes in on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
This setup is ideal for companies needing to control in-office density and is especially useful for teams with shared physical resources, such as labs or specialized equipment. Employees can show up consistently without overwhelming shared resources. Meanwhile, it ensures someone is always available for in-person client meetings or urgent issues.
3. Week-by-week rotation model
With a week-by-week rotation model, teams alternate full weeks working in the office and remotely. Rather than switching daily or splitting the week, employees spend entire weeks in one mode or the other.
“This model is effective for project-based organizations,” Keating points out. She notes that remote weeks allow for asynchronous work with international colleagues, while in-office weeks anchor team cohesion and alignment. It’s a structure that reduces daily meeting conflicts and helps employees focus entirely on either solo work or team projects.
4. Manager-scheduled hybrid model
“The manager-scheduled hybrid model allows managers to decide for their teams what will work best for splitting time between remote and in-office work,” says Toni Frana, a Florida-based career expert for FlexJobs. They might set specific days (e.g., Tuesday through Thursday) or let employees choose their preferred office days.
This model can work across industries because it allows managers to tailor schedules based on team goals and operational needs. But Frana emphasizes that clear communication between leaders and managers is key to making this model work. Without clear company-wide standards, this model can lead to uneven experiences across departments.
5. Employee-choice model
The employee-choice model lets workers decide when they’ll be in the office. Some companies offer complete flexibility, while others provide guidelines (e.g., at least two in-office days per week).
“This model is for trust-based cultures and knowledge-driven companies that prioritize outcomes over [attendance],” Keating explains. It works particularly well in tech, consulting and creative industries, where autonomy drives performance — and where benefits like paid sabbaticals support long-term well-being and retention. But if you prefer more structured team interaction, the split-week or alternating days models may be better.
How to advocate for your ideal hybrid arrangement
If your company offers flexibility, don’t be afraid to speak up about the hybrid model that helps you do your best work. Preparation and thoughtfulness make all the difference.
“Start by articulating why the change matters [for your team and the company],” Keating advises. “Link it to your ability to be focused or better aligned with your responsibilities.”
Be ready to explain how a flexible schedule would support your productivity — and back it up with examples. You might also reference how hybrid work can boost engagement, reduce burnout and improve outcomes for the company.
If your manager is hesitant, suggest a trial period of 30 to 90 days, says Frana. A temporary arrangement gives both sides a chance to test what works without long-term pressure.
These conversations are becoming a regular part of modern work life. Learning how to advocate for your ideal schedule now can support your long-term success, well-being and career growth.
What is USA TODAY Top Workplaces 2025?
Do you work for a great company? Each year, USA TODAY Top Workplaces, a collaboration between Energage and USA TODAY, ranks organizations across the United States that excel at creating a positive work environment for their employees. Employee feedback determines the winners.
In 2025, over 1,500 companies earned recognition as top workplaces. Check out our overall U.S. rankings. You can also gain insights into more workplace trends and advice by checking out the links below.