Most Irish employees would turn down jobs without hybrid working, research finds

Over half of Irish employees would turn down jobs that did not offer hybrid working, according to new research.

The study published by recruitment firm Hays Ireland found a clear preference for hybrid working models among Irish workers.

The research found 46 per cent of employees would even be willing to accept a lower salary for a role that was fully remote.

Work-life balance continues to be a major priority for Irish employees, with 61 per cent of employees saying they are satisfied with their work-life balance.

A further 12 per cent said they were very satisfied and 26 per cent suggested they were very dissatisfied or dissatisfied.

Despite the ongoing efforts to foster a healthier work-life balance, 26 per cent of employees changed job in the past year, with a better work-life balance being their primary motivator. Flexible working hours and shorter commutes were cited by employees as key factors in improving this balance.

Currently, 45 per cent of employees are working in a hybrid model, while 40 per cent are fully office based. However, 55 per cent of Irish organisations require staff to be in the office at least two or three times per week minimum.

Only 18 per cent offer flexible formats where employees choose how many days per week they want to work from home versus on site.

The report highlights the strong commitment of Irish employers to meet the demand for hybrid working and improve work-life balance. Notably, 47 per cent of organisations believe that hybrid working has contributed to higher employee retention; with 74 per cent of employers anticipating that hybrid working will stay the same in the next 12 months.

Additionally, employers identify further factors that help attract and retain staff such as salary, benefits packages, a positive work environment, and career development opportunities.

Maureen Lynch, managing director of Hays Ireland, said many employees no longer see hybrid working as a perk, but employers appear less convinced by this way of working.

"Many prominent blue-chips are encouraging their employees to come back into the office either four or five days a week. However, they must balance this against their recruitment and retention goals, and the expectations of those that they are looking to attract.

"Overall, this shift amongst employees reflects a broader desire for work-life balance, as employees prioritise roles that allow for autonomy over where and how they work. As organisations adapt to meet these demands, Ireland’s workplace landscape is transforming, signalling a future where flexibility, well-being, and job satisfaction are essential pillars of a thriving workforce."