Workplace flexibility has traditionally been considered a luxury. In the past, it was most common with CEOs, entrepreneurs, and non-traditional workers. However, it is quickly becoming a must in today’s work environment, and the consequences for ignoring employees’ desires for flexibility could result in decreased workplace satisfaction and increased attrition. Here’s what we’re seeing according to current data:
Workplace flexibility is the main motivator and reason that employees stay in their current job. (McKinsey)
When employees have the opportunity to work flexibly, 87 percent of them take it. (McKinsey)
Employees who work in the office full-time have significantly lower employee experience scores than hybrid and remote workers. (Future Forum)
Flexibility ranks second – preceded only by compensation – in regards to job satisfaction. (Future Forum)
These statistics are perhaps unsurprising after the global pandemic, but what is surprising is the power that employees hold in today’s economy. Companies desperately need talented employees. Therefore, employees are in a unique position to demand workplace flexibility as a workplace benefit.
However, leaders and business owners are also in a unique position: by being proactive and offering flexible work benefits now, they can attract talented employees as well as retain those they currently have. Here are a few major benefits of making the switch:
According to the numbers, flexibility improves work-life balance, mitigates stress, and boosts workplace satisfaction for employees. (Future Forum) Workplace flexibility makes for happier, more satisfied employees!
On average, companies see a 12% decrease in turnover when employees can work remotely at least some of the time. (Zippia) Turnover is tough on companies, both financially and culturally. Decreasing turnover is a major plus of workplace flexibility.
Sixty-three percent of high-growth companies implement hybrid work models. (Zippia) The numbers state that growing companies are embracing workplace flexibility, while stagnant companies are not.
Leaders, it’s time to embrace workplace flexibility as the future. And if you need help making the shift, we’re here to help!
We Optimize Work partners with leaders to create processes that increase engagement, performance and satisfaction for teams in hybrid work environments. Let’s connect! Email Domonique Townsend at dtownsend@weoptimizework.com.