Young Australians prefer hybrid working

ADP Research Institute® released a report that said that younger workers (18–24-year-olds) are more hesitant to return to full-time on-site work.

The People at Work 2022: A Global Workforce View found that 67 per cent of the workforce in Australia would consider finding new employment if they were asked to come into their workplace full time.

Over half of 18–24-year-olds and 65 per cent of 25–34-year-olds shared these thoughts. Compared to 46 per cent of 45–54-year-olds and just 27 per cent of over 55s – it appears there is a disconnect in expectations between generations.

As many younger workers began their careers during the pandemic, where working from home was the norm, it’s not surprising to see this data reflect a preference for that. An older workforce well accustomed to 5-day face-to-face work week aren’t as acclimated to working from home.

However, it appears plenty of people are getting used to the change as according to the report, 22 per cent of Aussies want flexibility of location at their job and 41 per cent said they would take a pay cut to continue flexible working arrangements.

But, this may create issues as 49 per cent felt that managers were less likely to notice burnout or employees overworking when working remotely.

Managing director of ADP Australia and New Zealand, Kylie Baullo, said that businesses should consider employee ‘wants’ to ensure happiness and productivity.

“This data calls out a strong employee voice. As businesses review how and where work will be done in the future, it is vital to collaborate with their employees.”

Homeworking may however create issues for a younger workforce. Ms Baullo notes that face-to-face work has the benefit of providing career development and opportunities that might not translate to a working from home arrangement.

“To ensure career opportunities are not missed, businesses will need to consider how to entice staff to work in-person, as well as provide a balanced workplace by also meeting the needs and wants of staff through flexible options,” she said.

“The physical office space is more than ever becoming a consideration. Where people are looking for a workspace that enables and facilitates collaboration and quiet space, a seamless transition between office and remote.”

It appears these opinions are the same globally. According to ADP’s report, 71 per cent of workers aged 18-24 would consider other employment if asked to return to the office full time. Part of these findings may come from the praise workers are receiving. 67 per cent of workers felt recognised for their work by their employer when working remotely, while only half felt this way working on site.

Employers should be mindful of this, making an effort to ensure employees feel valued when working on site. If workers feel more comfortable and more appreciated when they work from home, there isn’t much incentive to make the journey into the workplace.

You can read the full report here.