The fourth annual National Remote Working Survey has revealed that 44% of workers would change job, even if it means taking a pay cut, if their remote working preferences are not facilitated.
This is an increase on the same finding in last year’s study, in which 30% of respondents said they would change jobs to meet their remote working needs, even if it meant a pay cut.
In this year’s survey, 55% of respondents indicated that they would change job if their remote/hybrid working preferences are not facilitated even if it means less promotion opportunities.
This is also an increase on last year’s figure.
Researchers from the University of Galway and the Western Development Commission gathered responses from almost 6,000 respondents in late September and early October on their experience of remote working.
The survey found that 92% of respondents indicated that remote/hybrid working would be a key factor in their decision to change employer.
“Our previous annual surveys showed the growing appetite for remote or hybrid working and the 2023 survey provides evidence of this sustained trend,” said Professor Alma McCarthy, Professor of Public Sector Management and Dean of JE Cairnes School of Business and Economics at University of Galway.
For those who can work remotely or hybrid for at least some of the time, being able to do so now plays a critical role in employer and job choice,” Professor McCarthy said.
59% of respondents said they are currently working hybrid (sometimes remotely, sometimes onsite), 38% are working fully remotely and only 3% are working fully onsite.
The vast majority of those who are working hybrid, work remotely at home.
A small portion work remotely from a mix of their home, hub and at client sites.
The most popular days for working in the office are Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
72% of respondents indicated that their preferences for remote/hybrid working are being facilitated.
Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys said the 2023 Annual Remote Work Survey highlights the continuing interest in remote working.
“Government policy and in particular the Connected Hubs initiative is supporting remote workers and employers, ensuring that we attract and retain talent and build a brighter future for our rural communities,” Ms Humphreys said.
Chief executive of the Western Development Commission Allan Mulrooney said the latest national survey findings reveal that Irish workers now anticipate a continued embrace of the hybrid work model to better align with their lifestyles.
“Remote work has paved the way for novel opportunities in talent attraction and retention, effectively luring young families and new talented workers to revive regions that have borne the brunt of depopulation and declining job prospects for many years,” Mr Mulrooney said.
Article Source – 44% would change job to meet remote working needs – RTE