A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal
Sense of belonging in hybrid work settings
Authors: Urrila, Laura; Siiriainen, Aija; Makela, Liisa; Kangas, Hilpi
Publisher: Elsevier
Publishing place: SAN DIEGO
Publication year: 2025
Journal: Journal of Vocational Behavior
Journal name in source: Journal of Vocational Behavior
Journal acronym: J VOCAT BEHAV
Article number: 104096
Volume: 157
Number of pages: 21
ISSN: 0001-8791
eISSN: 1095-9084
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jvb.2025.104096
Web address : https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jvb.2025.104096
Self-archived copy’s web address: https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/491219710
Despite a wealth of research on flexible work, the understanding of the social and relational implications of hybrid work-a type of flexible work that combines remote and onsite work-is limited. This qualitative study investigates how individuals experience belonging in the hybrid working context. We present findings from 32 interviews conducted at two time-points between 2020 and 2022 with 16 expert employees. Our analysis reveals particular aspects of hybrid work that are related to working remotely (Control over work and personal time; Remote working skills; Virtual communication practices) and working onsite (Human connection; Information exchange; Relevance of onsite work). Based on our research, we theorize how the physical asynchrony attached to working remotely (i.e., alone, usually at home) and the physical synchrony attached to working onsite (i.e., alongside others) may contribute to employees' sense of belonging in hybrid work. We also debate potential early signs of work loneliness, and what might constitute satisfactory work relationships in hybrid work. We encourage future research on psychological needs satisfaction in hybrid work settings and recommend that organizations deploy hybrid working models that support connection.
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Funding information in the publication:
The authors would like to thank the Finnish Work Environment Fund (Ty¨osuojelurahasto, grant number 210321) for the generous support of this research.
