More than three-quarters (79 per cent) of Canadian employees say their overall well-being has significantly improved due to the greater flexibility offered by hybrid working, according to a new survey by International Workplace Group.
The survey, which polled more than 1,000 Canadian employees, found 64 per cent said their physical health has improved due to hybrid work, including being able to exercise more (57 per cent) and having time for healthier meal preparation (57 per cent). Hybrid workers also felt better rested (78 per cent) as they enjoyed improved quality of sleep (65 per cent).
Some ways businesses were complementing the physical health benefits offered by hybrid working were through other benefits including ergonomic desks and chairs (28 per cent), access to mental-health services and counselling (27 per cent) and bonus holidays (24 per cent), which include summer hours and early finishing times.
Read: All generations of employees say hybrid work supports productivity, job satisfaction: survey
Three-quarters (77 per cent) of workers said they felt an overall reduction in their stress levels and 69 per cent said hybrid working has led to a better work-life balance. These factors have contributed to a happier, healthier workforce with 79 per cent of workers reporting improved mental health since moving to a hybrid model.
The majority (84 per cent) of employees said hybrid work actually improved their job satisfaction. Given the positive impact of hybrid working on employees’ mental and physical health, 70 per cent said returning to a central office five days a week would negatively affect their well-being.
Notably, 72 per cent of workers said they’re more productive when working in a hybrid model, while 69 per cent reported being more motivated.
“Hybrid working offers a balanced approach between office and home, work and life,” said Terri Pozniak, executive vice-president and Canada country manager at IWG, in a press release. “By embracing a flexible working model, the lives of employees are significantly improved. For employers, they have a more productive workforce and are able to attract and retain the top talent, which ultimately drives an organizations competitiveness in the market.”
Read: 62% of Canadian employers using hybrid working model: survey