21.03.2025

65% of Gen Z want flexible working: Experts weigh in on why they’re right

The work landscape has dramatically shifted over the past five years. While some companies have returned to office mandates, remote and hybrid working models remain popular, especially among Gen Z employees.

A study has revealed that nearly two-thirds (65%) of Gen Z workers prefer a hybrid work model, emphasising flexibility as a critical component of their work life. But why are they right to prioritise flexible working, and how can they effectively navigate the remote aspects of their first corporate job? Office space experts Instant Offices weigh in.

The Benefits of Flexible Working:

Enhanced Collaboration and Team Bonding

Being in the office at least twice a week allows Gen Z employees to collaborate in person, building stronger relationships with colleagues and fostering creativity. Face-to-face interactions create opportunities for brainstorming, team bonding, and networking, which can be more difficult to achieve in a fully remote environment. This blend of remote work and in-person collaboration helps strengthen team dynamics and boosts overall morale.

Increased Productivity and Focus

Hybrid working offers the flexibility to choose when and where to work based on individual needs. Gen Z employees can leveragethe quiet, distraction-free environment of remote work for deep focus on tasks that require concentration, while utilising office days for meetings and teamwork. This flexibility allows them to optimise and prioritise their work, resulting in improved productivity and better results.

Lucinda Pullinger, Managing Director at Instant Offices says: “When employees have control over their schedules and work in well-designed workspaces - at home or in an office - they can work at their best. That is when employees and businesses can focus on performance and output which clearly drives productivity and commercial results vs just presence."

Better Work-Life Balance and Wellbeing

The hybrid model gives Gen Z workers the ability to manage their schedules and reduce commuting time, offering more time for personal activities, wellness, and family. This balance between professional responsibilities and personal life helps reduce stress, prevent burnout, and enhance overall job satisfaction. With the ability to work remotely, employees can maintain a healthy work-life integration that promotes mental wellbeing.

Pullinger continues: "The rise of remote work has shown that flexibility isn’t just a perk - it’s an expectation. Flexible workspaces contribute to a right-sized, agile infrastructure and the tools to support teams, helping them stay connected, engaged, and productive no matter where they are."

Navigating Remote Work in Your First Corporate Job

While flexible working offers numerous benefits, it can also present challenges especially for those just starting their careers. Gen Z workers entering the workforce may find remote work isolating or struggle to establish a healthy work-life balance. Fortunately, there are strategies that can help them thrive in the remote aspect:

Set Boundaries and Stick to a Routine

One of the biggest challenges of remote work is maintaining a balance between professional and personal life. Gen Z can avoid overworking and burnout by setting clear boundaries. Creating a designated workspace and establishing consistent work hours will help maintain focus and prevent the blurring of work and personal time.

Embrace Communication Tools, but Don’t Overdo It

While communication is crucial in a remote environment, it’s equally important to avoid the feeling of being constantly “on.” Gen Z should prioritise key communication channels and set aside “do not disturb” hours to focus on deep work. For those in hybrid roles, in-person office days can be used strategically to foster personal connections and catch up with colleagues.

Practice Self-Care and Be Kind to Yourself

Remote work can sometimes feel isolated, leading to feelings of loneliness or burnout. It’s vital for Gen Z to engage in self-care routines and take breaks to recharge. The flexibility of remote work provides the opportunity to pursue activities outside of work, from exercising to spending time with loved ones. It’s important to remember that remote work is a learning curve, and it’s okay if things don’t always go smoothly.

Posted by: FMJ 0 comment(s)