Recent research by Hays Ireland has revealed that more than half of Irish employees would turn down job offers that do not include hybrid working arrangements. This study underscores the significant shift in work preferences, with flexible working models becoming a decisive factor for job seekers in Ireland.
The findings show that 46 per cent of employees would even be prepared to accept a lower salary for a role that is fully remote, illustrating the value placed on flexibility and work-life balance. Currently, 45 per cent of Irish employees operate within a hybrid work model, whereas 40 per cent remain fully office-based. Despite this trend, 55 per cent of organisations in Ireland mandate that employees be in the office at least two to three times a week, limiting full flexibility.
Work-life balance remains a critical priority for Irish workers, with 61 per cent reporting satisfaction with their current work-life balance, and an additional 12 per cent stating they are very satisfied. However, 26 per cent of respondents expressed dissatisfaction or strong dissatisfaction with their work-life balance, pointing to an area for improvement.
The pursuit of a better work-life balance has driven 26 per cent of employees to change jobs over the past year, highlighting it as a major motivator. Flexible working hours and reduced commute times were identified as key elements contributing to an improved balance.
The report also indicates a positive response from employers, with 47 per cent acknowledging that hybrid working has led to higher employee retention. Moreover, 74 per cent of employers predict that the current level of hybrid working will remain stable over the next year. Yet, only 18 per cent of organisations offer fully flexible arrangements where employees can independently decide how many days to work from home versus in the office.
These findings underline the commitment of Irish employers to adapt to evolving workforce preferences and demonstrate that the demand for hybrid working is likely to persist. As employees continue to prioritise flexibility and work-life balance, organisations that align with these expectations may have a competitive advantage in attracting and retaining top talent.
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