6 in 10 execs believe works get done in office not remote

This is despite 62% of employees refusing non-hybrid jobs.

Around 60% of executives believe that work gets done in an office and not remotely, despite employees saying that not being able to work remotely is a ‘deal breaker’, according to Mercer’s 2022 Global Talent Trends Study.
 
The survey revealed that one in two employees say the future of work is about balance, with fitting work around life and not the other way around. Compared to 2020, employees today say they are more likely to stay with their employer due to “life” related factors, such as flexibility and healthcare, compared to “work” related factors, such as an organisation’s vision and leadership.
 
This has been such a big deal that nearly two in five employees in Singapore are willing to turn down pay increases to be able to work flexibly which is higher than the Asia average of 37% and the global average of 34%. Six and 10 have said that not being able to work remotely or hybrid permanently is a deal breaker whether they will join an organisation or stay with an organisation.
 
Executives however are concerned that permanent hybrid and remote working will hamper employees ability to build and maintain colleague relationships. Additionally, 51% organisations in Singapore have said they are struggling with scaling up and sustaining hybrid work.
 
“Employers need to bridge the gap in expectations and embrace new, flexible work models to cultivate a workforce that can design their own careers. Those who find that balance and align their policies to the wants and needs of their employees will not only boost the motivation and engagement of their existing workers, but also will win the best talent,” said Lewis Garrad, Career Business Leader, Singapore, Mercer.