For decades, American workers prized job stability and income growth above all else when it came to their jobs and careers. Today, surveys show most workers — both managerial and non-managerial — value something far different. Flexibility in how and when they do their work has become one of the most sought-after benefits of U.S. workers across many different industries.
A recent PwC survey is just one of many that demonstrate the phenomenon. According to the company’s survey of nearly 1,400 employees at a variety of companies, those allowed to work remotely at least one day per week have significantly higher job satisfaction than those who aren’t. In fact, they are a whopping 48% more likely to rate their job a “10” on the happiness scale (with 10 being the highest). Other studies show that workers are more likely to switch to jobs that offer some degree of flexibility in when and where they do their work — even if the job pays less than their current position.
Working from home isn’t the only flexible option workers are longing for. Workers are increasingly valuing work-life balance. Paid leave when having or adopting a new baby — for both moms and dads — is high on the list. The report by PwC, the international professional services firm, points out that at Microsoft, an estimated 40% of employees are able to work from home and both men and women can take up to 12 weeks off — five fully paid — in parental leave. According to a PayScale study, 70% of Microsoft employees cite high job satisfaction. (That’s pretty significant, given the fact that studies suggest that only one-third to one-half of U.S. workers are satisfied with their jobs.) At Cisco, 67% of employees say they can work remotely; at that company 75% of employees say they are highly satisfied with their jobs.
For more information on this fascinating study, go to this link.