In a shifting labour market landscape, a recent study by The Stepstone Group, parent company of IrishJobs, reveals that 42% of European job seekers would turn down an otherwise attractive job offer if it did not include options for remote or hybrid work. This statistic underscores a significant shift in job preferences, driven in part by the rise of hybrid work models and the increasing value placed on work-life balance and flexibility.

The report, titled "How Work Preferences Are Shifting in the Age of GenAI," provides a comprehensive look at the evolving priorities of the global workforce. In Ireland, the preference for hybrid work is even more pronounced, with 47% of job seekers indicating they would refuse a job offer that did not include the option to work remotely. This contrasts sharply with the global average of 29%, highlighting regional variations in work preferences.

However, this growing predilection for remote work presents new challenges for companies, particularly around productivity. A separate study by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) suggests that while remote work is popular, it may have complex impacts on productivity levels. The ONS study, which surveyed over 150,000 respondents across 188 countries, found that “job security” has now become the most critical factor for employees, surpassing "good relationships," which has dropped to fourth place. "Good work-life balance" and "financial compensation" complete the top three priorities, with "learning and career development" also emerging as significant considerations.

The shift in priorities indicates that employees are increasingly valuing stability and personal well-being, possibly as a response to the uncertainties brought about by global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This trend is particularly evident in Ireland, where job seekers are demanding more flexible working arrangements and greater support for mental health.

Sam Dooley, Country Director of The Stepstone Group Ireland, commented on the findings, stating, “There continues to be significant competition among employers to attract and retain skilled talent. With nearly half of Irish job seekers willing to turn down opportunities that do not provide hybrid or fully remote working options, employers should ensure they’re evolving their policies to address these needs and comply with new Government guidelines on the right to request remote work.”

This sentiment is echoed globally, where 40% of respondents indicated they would not work for a company that does not offer mental health support or that has a perceived negative impact on society. This highlights the growing importance of organizational culture and support systems in attracting top talent.

The Stepstone Group’s study also sheds light on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. According to the report, 39% of respondents regularly use AI tools, such as chatbots like ChatGPT and Gemini. This adoption is not confined to remote or entry-level AI jobs but spans various roles, demonstrating the technology's broad applicability. Additionally, 57% of global respondents expressed a willingness to retrain for new roles, recognizing AI's potential to disrupt traditional job functions.

The release of The Stepstone Group’s findings coincides with the ONS’s report on labor productivity in the UK. The ONS data presents a mixed picture: while some regions have seen productivity gains, London experienced a 2.7% decline in productivity from 2019 to 2022. This period also saw 60% of London workers adopting hybrid or fully remote work models. Furthermore, an ONS questionnaire revealed a reduction in the number of London businesses planning to increase remote working, dropping from 44% in 2022 to 29% in 2023. This suggests that some businesses may perceive a negative correlation between remote work and productivity.

The juxtaposition of these studies underscores the complex landscape employers must navigate. On one hand, there is clear demand for flexible work arrangements and support for mental health, driven by employees' desire for better work-life balance and job security. On the other hand, concerns about maintaining productivity in a remote work environment cannot be ignored.

To thrive in this evolving market, companies need to strike a balance between offering flexible work options and ensuring productivity. This may involve investing in technologies and management practices that support remote work without sacrificing efficiency. Additionally, fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture will be crucial in attracting and retaining talent.