The latest insights into work culture reveal a strong preference for hybrid working.
- The Global MARCO New Consumer Report 2024 highlights shifting attitudes towards work models.
- Traditional in-office work lags just behind hybrid work in popularity.
- A global survey shows a widespread willingness to adapt to various work forms.
- Work-life balance satisfaction varies significantly across different nations.
A recent study conducted by communication agency MARCO and research technology company Cint has shed light on the changing dynamics of work culture, focusing on employee preferences for various work environments. Results from the 3rd Global MARCO New Consumer Report 2024 indicate that 44% of workers favour a hybrid model that combines flexibility with in-office engagement. Simultaneously, traditional in-office work remains close in preference at 40%, while fully remote working garners less popularity, with just 16% support.
The survey, conducted between December 2023 and January 2024, covered 11 countries, including Brazil, France, Germany, Italy, Mexico, Morocco, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, the UK, and the USA. Cint played a crucial role in connecting with a wide range of audiences and capturing detailed data. This year’s report focuses on evolving perceptions of work flexibility, work-life balance, and various organisational models, presenting a forward-thinking exploration of contemporary work culture.
In the UK, the trend towards hybrid working is particularly strong, with 41% of the workforce preferring this model. Full-time, in-office work follows closely behind at 40%. Such findings underscore the growing demand for flexible work arrangements and highlight a move towards balancing professional obligations with personal well-being. The US contrasts this trend with a lesser inclination towards hybrid models.
Carlos García, Head of Stakeholder Relations and Internal Communications at MARCO, emphasises the need for organisations to adapt to societal changes. He notes, “Our approach to work culture must evolve in sync with societal demands. Hybrid work presents opportunities to reimagine traditional norms, fostering a more inclusive and flexible work environment. By leveraging technology and global communication strategies, MARCO has enhanced workplace efficiency and nurtured a healthier work-life balance among employees.”
Despite a strong preference for hybrid work, there remains a notable willingness among the global workforce to engage in various working models. A significant 64% indicate they would accept roles that do not offer hybrid options, though a more selective 36% prefer hybrid opportunities. British workers show a relatively high acceptance rate, with 63% open to non-hybrid roles. Conversely, French employees are less flexible, with 50% unwilling to join companies lacking hybrid work possibilities.|
Global sentiments about work-life balance paint a complex picture, with 70% of survey participants believing that their country’s work culture or labour laws support achieving a good balance. However, dissatisfaction remains for 30%. Countries like the UK and South Africa report high satisfaction rates of 77%, while Portugal lags, with only 56% of respondents feeling supported by current labour regulations.
Hybrid work remains a crucial element in the evolving landscape of global work culture preferences.
