A recent study conducted by the International Workplace Group (IWG) among over 1,000 working parents in hybrid roles has revealed that three-quarters (74%) would consider finding a new job if required to commute to a central office five days a week.
The research indicates that 83% of these parents believe they are better parents due to the flexibility offered by hybrid working. Additionally, 89% feel closer to their children, 92% are more present in their children’s lives, and 86% report an overall improvement in their family�s quality of life.
A major factor contributing to increased family happiness is the reduction of lengthy daily commutes. The study found that 84% of parents can spend more time with their children, with 85% becoming more involved in daily parenting tasks.
Nine out of ten parents (90%) stated that hybrid working has enabled them to achieve a better work/life balance, allowing for more family activities. This benefit is particularly evident in the mornings, where 67% of parents have more time for breakfast together, 54% can help get children ready for school, and 53% can participate in the school run.
In the evenings, parents reported more frequent involvement in helping with homework (46%) and having family dinners (49%). Moreover, 90% indicated they are now more able to attend important events like parents’ evenings (52%), family birthdays (48%), and school holidays (51%).
On average, parents have gained an additional five hours per week to spend with their families, amounting to 260 hours a year or an extra hour each working day. Almost a quarter (23%) of parents reported saving more than five hours a week.
The IWG study also highlighted significant financial savings, with parents saving over �5,500 annually on childcare costs. More than half (56%) expressed that they would struggle to afford childcare services for a full five-day workweek in a central office.
Mark Dixon, CEO of International Workplace Group, commented: �The ongoing and irreversible shift to hybrid working is transforming the lives of millions globally. This research underscores how hybrid working parents are enjoying a significantly improved work/life balance. Instead of wasting hours commuting, they are now working locally and relishing important family moments previously missed.�
Fatima Koning, Group Chief Commercial Officer at IWG, added: �Our research shows that flexibility is now crucial in how and where parents choose to work. With parents making up 40% of the workforce, organizations that ignore this shift to the hybrid model will struggle to attract and retain top talent. The modern workforce demands adaptability, and employers who embrace this are investing in a happier, more engaged workforce.�
To meet the growing demand for hybrid working, International Workplace Group, the world�s largest provider of hybrid working solutions with brands such as Spaces and Regus, added 867 new locations globally last year.
