Big research recently released by Randstad indicates that the push and pull between employers and workers on the return to the office is set to continue all over the year. According to the survey, over a third (37%) of workers have made arrangements in their lives, such as moving house or getting a pet based on the assumption that working from home is here to stay. The same amount would consider quitting their job if their employer asked them to spend more time in the office, and 39% say that working from home is non-negotiable to them. 

Despite this, a third (35%) have been requested to come into the office more now than they were six months ago – showing that there is a mismatch between what talent wants and what they are receiving. 

Talent demands equitable workplaces 

At the same time, workers are continually demanding more equitable workplaces where they feel they belong, and expect employers to take action on that. Data shows that the majority (52%) of workers think that the onus for improving equity lies with their employer, as opposed to themselves (18%). Meanwhile, 45% said that employers are liable for enhancing workplace culture, with only 17% taking personal responsibility for it. 

Talent also wants to work for businesses that mirror their own views and values, with a third (38%) saying they wouldn’t accept a job if they didn’t agree with the viewpoints of the leadership. 

Over a third (37%) of global talent also say that they would not accept a job if an organization wasn’t making a proactive effort to improve its diversity and equity. In instances where their employer didn’t take action on an issue that was important to them, a fifth (21%) have quit their job, with the number rising to 30% among Gen Z. 

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Source: Randstad