Do you want your employees to return to the office full-time?
You're far from alone.
However, a new survey from Ework reveals that the interest in working full-time at the office is lukewarm, with a whopping 77 percent expressing a preference for a hybrid model, spending parts of the week remotely.
A recent survey conducted by Ework in the fall of 2023 sheds light on the ongoing transformation in our work lives—a transformation that clearly points to flexibility as the key to success. Before the pandemic, it was common to spend the entire workweek at the office, a model that changed post-pandemic as many worked remotely for an extended period. Subsequently, many workplaces introduced a hybrid model where employees spend some days at the office and others remotely—a concept that has been highly appreciated and one that many now wish to retain.
77 Percent Prefer a Flexible Work Situation
According to the survey conducted by Ework, a whopping 77 percent of respondents are no longer interested in returning to full-time office work. Instead, they are seeking a hybrid model where they can combine office work with remote work from home. 66 percent stated that they already work in a flexible workplace today. The significant difference lay among those currently working full-time at the office and who would prefer a more flexible work situation.
No Surprise There
The desire for a flexible workplace does not come as a surprise. During the pandemic, many employees have experienced the benefits of being able to work from home, such as increased autonomy, better work-life balance, and reduced commuting time. Now, as society returns to a more normal phase, most want to retain these benefits.
In the survey, respondents were also asked how they would prefer to spend their time. The majority answered that the optimal distribution would be 2-3 days at the office, while some would prefer to vary from week to week.
Some Challenges
This shift towards a more flexible workplace also comes with challenges. Companies need to invest in technology and infrastructure to support remote work while fostering a culture where collaboration and communication are promoted regardless of where employees are located.
Leadership also needs to change when discussing the workplaces of the future. Some qualities highlighted in the survey were that leaders needed to be more adaptable and flexible and have a deep knowledge of digitalization to create a functioning work environment.
Curious about what other qualities were highlighted in the survey? Download the survey here!
Whether you belong to the category that wants to attract their workforce back to the office or want to continue with a flexible work model, it is clear that the workplace has changed forever. To continue to attract and retain talent in the future, it is up to companies to adapt to the new reality and try to meet employees' desire for a more flexible work life.
