Despite growing demand for flexibility, most S’pore firms still want staff to be in office

A recent survey by Reeracoen Singapore showed that most companies are sticking to traditional office-based work policies despite the growing global demand for flexible work arrangements (FWAs).

The survey data showed that 56 per cent of the companies in Singapore maintain a 100 per cent office-based work policy, with only 7 per cent offering fully flexible or remote working options.

The findings suggest that while some companies embrace new work models, the majority still remain hesitant.

Furthermore, despite almost 40 per cent of firms in Singapore implementing hybrid working arrangements, there is an apparent gap when comparing the speed of policy adoption to the global push for more flexibility at work.

89% of employees prefer hybrid or fully remote work arrangements

Several studies and surveys have also shown a high demand for bosses to offer flexible work modes.

A recent study by Morgan Mckinley found that an overwhelming 89 per cent of employees in Singapore prefer working in a hybrid or fully remote arrangement. Another survey conducted by Randstad Singapore showed that almost half of the country’s workforce is inclined to leave their jobs if they are required to come to the office more often.

This shows a stark disconnect between employers and employees in the city-state and that companies that choose to stick to office-based work arrangements will have trouble attracting and retaining talent in the long term.

New legislation to support workers’ need for greater flexibility

In December, the new tripartite guidelines for FWA are set to take effect. The guidelines, which mandate employers to consider formal requests for flexible work arrangements, suggest that the Singapore government supports and acknowledges workers’ need for greater flexibility.

Although the business landscape is gradually evolving to embrace more flexible and inclusive working arrangements, employers who are slow to implement new workplace policies can potentially hinder their growth within the ever-changing global job market.

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