Addeco Group Research Reveals 13% of Employees Uncomfortable Requesting Flexible Working

LONDON, October 30, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

When it comes to finding out about workplace benefits during a job interview, British people are most uncomfortable asking about flexible working options (18%). This is despite flexible working (33%) topping the chart in terms of which factors (other than salary) are most important to their workplace happiness.

The research of 1,500 UK employees was conducted by Badenoch & Clark and titled 'Multi-generational workforce'. It found that 13% of employees were uncomfortable asking about holiday entitlement and career break opportunities or sabbaticals.

In general, younger generations are the most uncomfortable asking for things, with just 7% of Gen Z (the youngest generation in the workforce at the moment) comfortable asking about any type of benefits during the interview process. In comparison, 42% of Baby Boomers said they are happy to ask about the benefits they will receive as part of a role.

Nikki Coleman, Operations Director, Badenoch & Clark, commented: "In order to remain competitive in the UK's current skills gap environment, which could be compounded further by Brexit, organisations need to pull out all the stops."

"It's no surprise that flexible working is important to many employees and a lot of organisations now have agile working policies in place. But clearly there is more that can be done to not just make jobseekers feel comfortable asking about this, but actively promote their approach to flexible working as part of the recruitment process. Those businesses who make sure that flexible working does not become an 'off-limit benefit' will have a competitive advantage in the war for talent."

While flexible working is the most popular benefit across the board, the youngest generation - Gen Z - is more interested in career progression opportunities (33%) than agile working (25%). After flexible working, 30% of employees prioritised benefits such as gym memberships, and private healthcare when choosing a job.

About the research:  

1,564 UK based employees across different generations were surveyed, by research agency Opinion Matters, between the 28th March and 4th April 2018.

About Badenoch & Clark:  

Badenoch & Clark is the professional services arm of The Adecco Group UK&I. With a dedicated team of over 250 specialist recruiters based throughout 12 UK offices, Badenoch & Clark helps professionals make the right connections across commerce & industry, legal, banking and financial services and the public sector.