Almost half of Irish professionals say ‘hybrid working’ is not fit for purpose, according to a new survey.
ifty-five percent of professionals in the study, which was conducted by Robert Walters Ireland, said the combination of working both in the office and at home has resulted in more intense working days.
Out of the 1,000 people surveyed, 63pc said their company has adopted hybrid-work models.
The report found that the new hybrid working model has resulted in the Irish workforce feeling overworked (54pc) and exhausted (39pc).
A total of 42pc said they would quit their jobs if remote working is entirely removed.
However, physically going to their place of work remains very important to younger professionals.
Seventy-five percent of 18 to 26-year-olds said the workplace is their number one source of meaning and social connection.
A further 54pc of this age cohort said they are likely to leave their employer within 12 months if a workplace culture does not return.
Rober Walters Ireland managing director Louise Campbell said it’s not surprising that many employees want more office time, as 85pc of professionals recorded a decline in their wellbeing in 2020.
“Our research shows that the diminishing social capital accessible through the hybrid or fully working from home model could turn the younger staffers into a ‘flight risk.’
“Additionally, talent retention is at its highest levels when employers invest time and effort in building and maintaining a workplace culture that prioritises social capital for employees.
“Added to this, studies have found that employees working mainly from home were less likely to receive a bonus, get promoted or receive training than colleagues who spent more time in the workplace,” she said.
Many employees also feel they are still the dark about their employer’s plans for post-pandemic working, with 40pc stating they are yet to hear about any vision, and a further 28pc claiming that what they’ve heard remains vague.