what workers really want in a flexible workplace.

The demand for flexible work arrangements is on the rise, driven by shifting workforce needs and technological advancements. As the nature of work continues to evolve, both workers and employers are recognizing the value of adaptability and flexibility. So, what exactly are workers looking for in a flexible workplace?

We carried out a survey with Ipsos to find out. The key takeaway? Only 47 percent of blue-collar workers and 49 percent of white-collar workers are satisfied with the level of workplace flexibility. Women in blue-collar positions have the lowest satisfaction rates with only 43 percent satisfied. And more than one in four blue and white-collar workers admit lack of workplace flexibility could motivate them to find a new job.

Many employers understand workers crave more flexibility in the workplace. But they’re often confused as to what their employees really want. Some believe flexibility refers to remote working options. While remote or hybrid work opportunities are certainly a key component, especially when it comes to white-collar roles, flexibility means so much more. In fact, our research revealed five benefits workers are looking for when it comes to a flexible workplace.

1. paid time off

More paid time off is the most important workplace benefit pertaining to job flexibility for blue-collar workers. Blue-collar women, in particular, value this benefit, with 64 percent considering it a key job offer factor. Ontario workers are also more likely to seek employers that offer more paid time off options by a margin of 41 percent to 51 percent.

However, workers aren’t just looking for more paid time off hours. They also want a greater level of flexibility to use these hours. For example, they want to be able to use this PTO to care for sick children or parents. Most workers (60 percent white-collar, 58 percent blue-collar) want paid short-term family leave for care-giving needs.

Employers must regularly re-evaluate their paid time off policies to ensure they meet workers’ expectations.

2. choice of preferred schedule

Many blue-collar workers realize their jobs are not designed for remote work. But they do want to choose their own shift times, including days, evenings and weekends.

Most importantly, many want a permanent work schedule that allows them to effectively make plans in their personal life. The one exception to this is anglophone workers, who are twice as likely to prefer rotating their work hours from week to week. Additionally, our survey results show 28 percent of blue-collar workers and 24 percent of white-collar workers want the option to work four days a week.

Employers should look for ways to give their employees more control over their work schedules. This benefit is a crucial part of the job offer and can help boost employee satisfaction.

3. ability to set hours

Not only do workers want control over their work schedule, but they want to determine how many hours they work per week. While the desire for this benefit is significantly more predominant in white-collar employees (59 percent) than blue-collar employees (28 percent), it made the top five list for both types of workers.

White-collar employees want the freedom to set the number of hours they work each day based on their specific workload. They also want the ability to take a day off if they end up working longer hours the rest of the week. Blue-collar workers, on the other hand, want the ability to determine whether they work full-time or part-time hours.

Allowing your workers to set their own hours is typically easier for white-collar positions versus blue-collar roles. However, some employers who hire predominantly blue-collar workers are not limiting their workforce to full-time hours anymore. Instead, they are also offering part-time job opportunities. Not only does a flexible workplace increase job satisfaction, but it also improves employee retention.

4. work from home opportunities

Since most blue-collar jobs cannot be done remotely, work-from-home options (or telecommuting) are predominantly a white-collar benefit. According to our survey, 42 percent of white-collar workers want the ability to work remotely at least on a part-time basis, while 39 percent want to work remotely 100 percent of the time. Male workers in blue-collar positions are most likely to want to work from home full-time, with 55 percent of these workers wanting to work from home 100 percent of the time.

It may be difficult for employers to take a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to remote work opportunities. Instead, they need to look at individual roles and duties to determine what tasks can be done remotely, and what duties must be done onsite. Work with your employees to develop a work schedule that aligns with both their needs and the company’s expectations.

5. leave of absence options

Many workers face life’s unexpected challenges, such as caring for loved ones, health issues or family obligations, which can require extended time off. Although pandemic-era regulations around providing partial pay during such leaves have expired, workers’ desire for flexible leave policies remains strong.

In fact, our research shows 14 percent of white-collar workers consider this an important part of a flexible workplace. Employers should take the time to update their current leave of absence policies, so employees know exactly what options are available.

Prioritizing flexibility and understanding employees’ desires is crucial for employers to stay competitive. It helps attract and retain top talent and puts your business on the track to success.