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Companies that are slower to integrate flexible working models risk missing out on skilled workers and keeping up with future workplace changes, according to a report by real estate adviser JLL.
JLL’s research states that companies that are unprepared for the structural shift to hybrid working had to do more to create "responsible, personalised and experiential workplaces".
The report notes that "intensive experimentation and piloting are needed to achieve hybrid working models that will deliver a unique workplace experience for all”.
The research shows that globally, organisations are looking to continue flexibility for where and when people work, with 82% expecting employees to work remotely into the future at least part of the time – spending on average two days every week away from the office. Yet 48 % of organisations in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) still have not developed a future of work programme to meet the rising demands and expectations of their staff for greater work flexibility, exceptional and sustainable workplaces and increased wellbeing.
Owing to a global talent shortage companies that are slow to integrate flexible working models risk missing out on skilled workers. The research added that 88% of the workforce now want to choose their working hours in the future. Flexible and agile workplace structures that empower remote, hybrid and cross-border teams will help "ensure companies compete and retain talent in today’s tight labour market", states the report.
Organisations will also have to calculate the right level of technology investment as more businesses move to a hybrid model. The imperative, the report says, will be "to keep people connected, whether they are working in the office or at home, and to create that sense of connectivity".
Mark Caskey, EMEA CEO Work Dynamics, JLL, said: “Hybrid is here to stay and it’s now up to organisations to integrate and optimise flexible working into their future of work programmes. Today's employees want more: technology that keeps them connected, buildings that are truly sustainable and employers that prioritise their health and wellbeing. Forward-thinking organisations have already stolen a march on the rest of the competition by seeking to address this trend now.”
