The latest Workforce Monitor survey by the American Staffing Association, unveiled on April 24, sheds light on the work preferences of nearly 70% of U.S. adults. Interestingly, the survey underscores a generational divide in work preferences. While over a third of baby boomers lean towards remote work, only a quarter of Gen Z shares the sentiment. Additionally, close to half of employees with young children express a preference for a hybrid work model.
One striking finding of the survey is the prevalent burnout among employees, with almost half admitting to feeling burnt out at their jobs. Equally concerning is the reluctance of a similar number of employees to discuss their burnout with their supervisors. These findings underscore the urgent need for flexibility and improved engagement in the workplace, irrespective of the chosen work format.
Surveys conducted since the onset of 2023 suggest a growing inclination towards hybrid work among employers. However, there’s a nuanced shift towards stricter in-office requirements, as revealed by a March 2023 survey from Littler Mendelson.
Employers keen on embracing hybrid work must exercise caution against implementing a one-size-fits-all policy. Research published by The Hackett Group in 2023 suggests that involving employees in crafting virtual work arrangements yields the most favorable outcomes for organizations.
Richard Wahlquist, CEO of the American Staffing Association, emphasizes the importance of workplace flexibility in shaping the future of work. He advocates for a focus on cultivating employee-centric cultures as a cornerstone of organizational success.
Hybrid work arrangements also offer a potential solution to address burnout. According to a survey by the International Workplace Group, hybrid work promotes healthier habits by affording employees more time for exercise, cooking nutritious meals, and adequate sleep, owing to reduced commute times.