Hybrid working has emerged as a significant factor in enhancing employee wellbeing and productivity, according to multiple recent studies. Despite the benefits, some businesses are encouraging a return to full-time office work, raising questions about the future of workplace flexibility.
A survey conducted by business advisory firm Grant Thornton UK, involving 607 mid-sized businesses, revealed that 71% have adopted a hybrid working model. Among these, 83% reported increased employee productivity, and an equal percentage noted a positive impact on staff wellbeing. Additionally, 86% observed a preference among employees for hybrid arrangements, and 85% deemed it beneficial for their business overall.
Further supporting these findings, research by the International Workplace Group indicated that 79% of hybrid workers felt less drained, and 78% experienced reduced stress levels. Moreover, 74% reported heightened productivity, and 85% expressed greater job satisfaction.
‘Health Benefits and Reduced Absenteeism’
Hybrid working also correlates with improved physical health outcomes. A study by insurance firm Vitality, Britain’s Healthiest Workplace, study found that hybrid workers had lower obesity rates (20%) compared to full-time home workers (25.2%). They also reported fewer musculoskeletal issues and better dietary habits. Notably, hybrid workers lost fewer productive days due to health concerns, with an average of 47.8 days lost annually, compared to 50.8 days for full-time home workers.
The desire for flexible working arrangements is strong among employees, polls show. A YouGov survey commissioned by YuLife revealed that 79% of UK employees capable of remote work preferred a hybrid model, with at least two days per week working from home. Additionally, 62% felt more motivated in workplaces that prioritised their wellbeing and that of their families.
Conversely, a poll reported by The Guardian indicated that nearly half of UK professionals might consider resigning if mandated to return to full-time office work. Women, in particular, showed a higher propensity (58%) to leave compared to men (42%). Commuting costs were a significant concern for 88% of workers.
Challenges in Training and Development
Despite the advantages, hybrid working presents challenges, particularly in supporting and developing younger or trainee employees. Grant Thornton’s survey suggested that 78% of businesses felt hybrid arrangements impacted their ability to provide adequate support and development for these groups.
Some companies are advocating for a return to full-time office work. For instance, Vistry, the UK’s largest housebuilder, has mandated full-time office attendance to enhance collaboration and address previous operational challenges.
But experts suggest that a balanced approach is essential. Richard Waite, people and culture director at Grant Thornton UK, says it’s important to implement frameworks that allow employees to make informed decisions about their work arrangements.
“A blended approach to in-office working and working from home has become an established way of operating for many organisations since the pandemic,” he said. “Employees tend to see this as a significant benefit, valuing the flexibility it offers and the ability to better balance professional and personal commitments.”
Waite added that “[i]n turn, many businesses have also seen a boost to their employees’ wellbeing and productivity but recognise that the need for in-person interaction and connectivity has not gone away with some activity, such as training and development or group collaboration, still requiring that in-person, human element.”