Hybrid working is here to stay. 64% of Irish businesses surveyed by people management platform, HRLocker, confirmed they planned to operate a hybrid model for the foreseeable future. 15% of Irish businesses are now remote-first and only 17% of those surveyed want their employees to return to the office full time, suggesting the novel models are working for businesses and their employees.
Sentiment too is on the rise. 86% of executives believe the economy will improve in the coming 12 months, a major jump from 26% in October 2020. And it’s with good cause that employers are upbeat – 68% reported an increase in revenues in the past 12 months.
This economic boom is not without its challenges though. We are very much operating in an employee’s market. Two thirds of respondents expect talent shortages to be the greatest challenge of 2022. With so many opportunities available and salaries rocketing, skilled talent is spoilt for choice; and they know it.
“Employees are looking beyond the numbers to see how well their next employer fits with their personal and professional goals. To hold on to their best and brightest, employers are under pressure to create a great employee experience from the outset, ensuring their employer brand accurately reflects their culture and is engaging enough for potential candidates”, says Adam Coleman, CEO at HRLocker.
Adding, “Flexibility too, is no longer a perk, it’s a requisite. Candidates are looking for friendlier working hours, longer holidays and the freedom to travel, while also being free to work on the things they love rather than wading through administration. Enter clever technology to cut out mundane tasks”, added Coleman.
Vaccination
In terms of returning to the office safely, it’s no surprise to learn that 85% of employers want their staff to be fully vaccinated. However, just 17% are in favour of mandatory vaccination.
The pandemic may not be over, but organisations and their people are looking forward, capitalising on new opportunities, created by the shift in the way we work, which at least for now seems to be benefiting everyone.
This article was written based on data collected by HRLocker. HRLocker is a company offering businesses cloud-based software to automate administrative elements of human resources, including performance management, absence management, continuous professional development and timesheets. To learn more about the company, please visit their official website.