Construction BUSINESS

In a recent survey conducted by Hays Ireland, the majority of Irish employers are set to maintain their hybrid working policies in the upcoming year, but a significant number are increasing the requirement for physical office attendance. The survey engaged 1,451 employers and professionals, revealing a strong emphasis on achieving work-life balance among workers. Approximately 48 per cent expressed concerns about working hours, while 54 per cent signalled openness to job opportunities without hybrid arrangements, indicating a shift in sentiment towards office-based work.

Despite concerns about working hours, over two-fifths of workers expressed reluctance to accept a lower salary for a fully remote role, underscoring the importance they place on flexible work arrangements. Employers are adapting their approaches to workplace setups, with 38 per cent indicating an intention to demand more in-office contact hours in 2024. However, 58 per cent foresee no changes to existing hybrid arrangements, suggesting a prolonged departure from pre-Covid norms. The survey also disclosed that 44 per cent of employees work in the office full-time, while 41 per cent follow a hybrid model.

Divergent expectations among employers are evident, with 27 per cent mandating three days of physical presence, 20 per cent requiring a minimum of two days, and 23 per cent offering full flexibility. Maureen Lynch, Director at Hays Ireland, emphasized the report’s significance in highlighting the evolving landscape, stating that as employee preferences shift, employers are adapting to foster work-life balance and in-person collaboration. The survey concludes on a positive note, noting a “sense of optimism” in the job market, with employers actively seeking collaborative solutions to enhance the overall working environment.