10 Top Tech Tools for Hybrid Work

As organizations ramp up to get back to business this September, many formerly remote employees will be transitioning back to the office. As hybrid work becomes the norm, there’s never been a better time to get your mobile office up to speed.

“The future is a hybrid set-up and having the right mobile tools will play a big part in keeping up our productivity no matter where we’re working,” says Winy Bernard (@mllebernard) Toronto-based entrepreneur and podcaster.

Bernard knows a thing or two about working from anywhere. Spending the last 10 months working in destinations like Haiti and Miami, having her go-to mobile tech tools on hand helped to keep her business running — whether she was working from her accommodations or from a co-working space.

As mobility becomes integrated into our lives, here are the 10 must-have tools that can help you optimize your Work from Anywhere experience.

1. Epson WorkForce WF-110 Wireless Colour Mobile Printer

Having your own mobile printer that connects via Bluetooth to your wireless devices — whether it be your computer, tablets or phone — can be a game-changer that saves you both time and money. “I like that it’s small and easy to carry,” says Bernard, tech expert on Staples Canada’s Work from Anywhere Advisory Council. “It’s just very convenient.”

It also connects to AI virtual assistants: “If you have Amazon or Google AI products that you can pair it with, you can tell your printer, ‘Hey Alexa, or OK Google, print page five of the XYZ report.’ I love that!” says Bernard.

2. TRU RED 16-Sheet Cross-Cut Commercial Shredder

Once you’re done with those hard copies at the home office, protect your privacy and security by shredding them. This heavy-duty cross-cut shredder boasts a P-4 rating for increased sensitive data security, making it appropriate for confidential, personal, and financial documents. 

3. Google Nest Wi-Fi Router and Point

If your Work from Anywhere set-up includes a backyard office, your Wi-Fi may need a boost. This secure device helps blanket your home (up to 350 square metres) with a strong signal, so you can get a good connection during video calls or while you stream or surf, whether you’re indoors or out.

4. JBL Live 650 Wireless Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones  

“Noise-cancelling headphones are great whenever you need to focus on what you're doing,” says Bernard. Besides listening to music and podcasts, Bernard uses hers to record podcasts for a few of her clients. “They’re a great investment for any mobile office.”

5. Logitech HD Pro Webcam

If your work involves collaboration, presenting and/or recording, it’s time to upgrade to a pro-calibre web cam. You’ll get better resolution and crystal-clear sound thanks to this device’s HD auto-focus, light correction and dual microphones.  

6. Lenovo IdeaPad Duet Chromebook

This Chromebook gives you the option of a laptop when you need it and downsizes to a tablet when you don’t via its detachable full-size keyboard. And at just under one pound, it’s light enough to carry anywhere.

7. NXT Technologies 10000 mAh 2 USB Port PowerBank

Working from anywhere is incredibly convenient… until you find yourself mid-report and in dire need of a power outlet. This two-port unit is perfect for powering up your tablet and phone. It can fully charge a smartphone three times before the power bank itself needs recharging. A built-in LED indicator displays its remaining battery life.

8. Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 12.4" Touchscreen

Microsoft’s lightest Surface laptop was made for working from anywhere. Not only does the battery last up to 13 hours, but it has 8 GB of memory, 128 GB SSD storage, runs Windows 10 S and more. Just call it the mobile-office MVP.

9. Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G, 6.5-inch Unlocked Cell Phone, 128 GB

Samsung Galaxy’s camera and battery life make it a must-have for content creators. For Bernard, who often gets asked to shoot video content on the go, having peace of mind that the footage she captures is high-quality is everything. “The battery life on the Samsung Galaxy is great as well, meaning you don't need to worry about constantly charging your phone or looking for a charging station,” she says.

What’s more, if you travel for work, having an unlocked phone allows you to use a local SIM card, says Bernard.

10. ASUS 23.8" IPS Frameless Monitor with AMD FreeSync Technology

If your Work from Anywhere base is your own home, you can create a more ergonomic and productive home-office set up with a dedicated monitor. Connect it to your laptop and a full-size keyboard to help prevent posture issues and eye strain. Its 23.8”-LED monitor, HD resolution and flicker-free, Low Blue Light technology, assure a crisp and more comfortable screen interaction.