Why Hybrid Work Fails — and How Remote Wins

In this TEDx talk, DOXA^® Talent CEO David Nilssen examines the hidden costs of hybrid work and why it fails to deliver on its promise of flexibility and balance. Drawing on his experience leading fully remote organizations, David outlines how hybrid models often create unequal employee experiences, increase operating costs, and weaken culture. This session combines research, practical frameworks, and real-world examples to help leaders rethink work design and prepare for the future of business.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Recognize the inequities created by hybrid models and their long-term impact on employee engagement.
• Identify the financial inefficiencies of maintaining office space for limited use.
• Understand how remote-first practices expand access to global talent and level the playing field for growing companies.
• Explore leadership strategies for onboarding, training, and managing in a remote-first environment.
• Shift from presence-based management to results-based accountability to improve trust and outcomes.
• Apply intentional practices to build culture, inclusion, and belonging in distributed teams.
• Reframe productivity by rewarding efficiency and investing in ongoing employee growth.