According to a new study, 88% of people wish they could work remotely or already doing so at least sometimes.
As the COVID-19 pandemic changed the way we worked almost overnight, it illuminated the benefits and practicality of remote work. Working from home allows for more flexibility, saves time by eliminating the commute, and allows workers to focus on their work without general workplace distractions. The Scope Weekly spoke with Jonathan Shroyer the Chief Customer Experience Innovation Officer at Arise Virtual Solutions, to gain further insights.
As a result, many people enjoyed working remotely. When companies started going back into the office, many employees were not thrilled, especially after the last few years demonstrated that many jobs could run effectively without having to go into physical office locations.
The new study surveyed people in the United States and Canada, and 61% wish they could work remotely or already do. An additional 21.8% of people surveyed said they want a hybrid option. 5% of people surveyed said they currently work a hybrid work schedule.
Employees would consider pursuing or remaining in an onsite role for an annual raise of:
- 20 percent with a 30-minute commute.
- 15 percent with a 15-minute commute.
- 10 percent for a hybrid job with a 30-minute commute.
While more companies continue to push sending their employees back into the office, it could negatively affect businesses, especially regarding employee acquisition and retention.
“The future of work is upon us. People have spoken with their feet. They are leaving legacy thinking of work and moving to a people-focused hybrid model. Only 12% of people want to work in an office every day. Companies that will succeed in retention of top talent will adapt to meet their people where they are and what to work on,” said Shroyer to The Scope Weekly.
Companies that prioritize what their employees want and offer hybrid or remote work options are not limited in any way when it comes to the acquisition process. Anyone can come from anywhere, which gives companies the freedom to hire despite geographic location and allows workers to work from anywhere.
“We are definitely seeing more people desire remote work and flexible hours. Companies that prioritize flexibility will be the companies that more people want to work at. Companies that fail to adjust to what people want have a much greater risk of failing or losing out on great employees, at both a retention and acquisition level,” added Shroyer.
When 60% of people want remote work, it demonstrates that people value flexibility and the freedom to work for a company regardless of location. It also should encourage companies to consider a hybrid or remote options regarding business operations. When most people want something that some companies are unwilling to give, they will look elsewhere for employment options, which can lead to negative consequences in the long run.
As remote or hybrid options become more desirable and sought after, in-office job positions may not receive the number of qualified candidates that could result in the best person that fits the role a company is looking to fill. This also limits the number of candidates based on geography. Companies can only hire people who live within a drivable or walkable distance of their physical locations.
Additionally, if companies are strict and push back and enforce the in-office work culture, it could cause long-term employees to look elsewhere or not be as willing to go above and beyond at work. This can lead to hostile work culture and decreased productivity. Negative work culture is detrimental to a business and its success. From upper-level management to entry-level employees, not feeling heard by their company can lead to resentment and job dissatisfaction.
Companies that value their employees and listen to what they want will offer flexibility regarding how and where employees work and spend their day. These companies will likely become highly sought after by potential candidates, especially younger ones.
Since 2020 and the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world has had to make significant changes to circumvent the impact a global pandemic would have on nearly every aspect of our lives. Almost overnight, thousands of businesses, schools, and organizations had to go from in-person settings to solely remote, digital forms of communication. This has forced business executives to adjust their strategy to keep their companies functioning and thriving during the pandemic and into the future in a post-pandemic world.
Today, in the United States, the country has shifted from a remote, locked-down society to a more post-pandemic, digitized mindset. As a society, we are generally more aware of the importance and value of functioning remotely. Additionally, studies show that people enjoy working remotely, and it is in companies’ best interest to listen to what their employees want by offering flexible work options. Companies that prioritize their employees and listen to what they want will be more likely to succeed, attract the best candidates, and not be limited by geography during the acquisition process.
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