Workers see flexible working as more valuable than hybrid working – Avilio

Workers in the UK now see flexible working hours as more valuable than hybrid working, new research from Avilio found. 

The survey of 1,284 UK employees showed financial reward is the top driver of job satisfaction, with 44% choosing salary and bonus as the most important factor. 

Flexible working came next at 41%, ahead of hybrid working, which stood at 33%. 

The preference for flexible working was highest among those aged 35 to 54 (45%) and those aged 55 and over (42%), while younger workers aged 18 to 34 put less emphasis on it at 37%. 

Career progression was less of a focus, with only 22% of all workers citing it, but this rose to 31% for the youngest group. 

Other key contributors to job satisfaction included getting on well with colleagues (39%) and being able to provide for themselves and their family (36%).

The full results were as follows: financial reward (44%), flexible working (41%), working with colleagues they like (39%), knowing they can provide for themselves and their family (36%), hybrid working (33%), receiving praise and encouragement (32%), having work that is challenging and interesting (31%), knowing their job makes an impact on society (29%), and career progression (22%). 

Only 5% said they do not feel a sense of job satisfaction.

Philippe Masson, CEO at Avilio, said: “This data highlights a clear shift in what employees’ value in their jobs. 

“While the pandemic brought widespread hybrid working, simply allowing people to work from home is no longer enough to help them manage their work-life balance.

“Beyond financial rewards, employees now prioritise the ability to adjust their working hours, so allowing them the freedom to choose when they work could be a particularly significant factor for many prospective and existing employees in the coming years.”

Masson added: “To retain their talent and truly support their teams, employers must ensure that flexibility is embedded in the culture and backed by policies that are practical, consistent, and responsive to employees’ needs.

“This is especially important as people take on additional responsibilities with age, such as childcare or caring for elderly relatives. 

“Flexible working was valued most among older respondents, so a one-size-fits-all approach to supporting wellbeing simply won’t work.”

He said: “Providing meaningful flexibility is now the most effective way to reduce stress and boost productivity, and employers who get this right will empower their workforce to thrive.”