Hybrid work seen as key to closing gender gap faster: report

70% of women feel that flexible work has helped level the playing field, and 52% say it has been crucial to advancing their careers.

At the current pace, gender parity may not be fully achieved until 2158, but 53% of women believe hybrid work can accelerate the timeline, according to a new study by the International Workplace Group.

The report found that 70% of women feel that flexible work has helped level the playing field, and 52% say it has been crucial to advancing their careers.

The gender employment gap in Singapore has already narrowed significantly, with the difference between male and female workforce participation dropping to 12.4% in 2023 from 20.1% in 2013.

The study highlighted hybrid work is a major driver in closing this gap, with 64% of women reporting a positive impact on their careers due to flexible working arrangements. More than 56% said they were promoted into senior roles, citing hybrid work as a key enabler.

Beyond promotions, the study noted the role of localised working in boosting female career trajectories, with 75% of women stating that the ability to work closer to home was crucial.

The main benefits of hybrid work include improved work-life balance (56%), increased flexibility (58%), and reduced commuting time (53%).

Hybrid work is also a major factor in leveling the playing field, with 70% of women saying it has helped create more equal opportunities. Whilst the World Economic Forum predicts that full gender parity may take until 2158, 53% of women believe hybrid work can help close the gap much faster.

In Singapore, women’s representation in Professional, Managerial, Executive, and Technician roles has increased to 46% in 2023 from 42% in 2013.

The study also found that 82% of women feel more productive and efficient when given the option to work flexibly.

Companies have also seen direct benefits, with 69% of employers reporting improved workforce productivity and higher talent retention due to flexible work policies.

For businesses looking to attract and retain female talent, flexible work arrangements have become non-negotiable.

The study found that 84% of women consider workplace flexibility a major factor when applying for jobs, and 58% would leave their jobs if required to commute daily. This figure rises to 62% among women aged 25-34, a critical period for career progression.