Flexible Working Policies and Practices 

Rethinking what we need from work

Flexibility is among the top reasons employees say they would be attracted to a new employer. Economically, this is a high value benefit that can be provided at a low cost to the employer. So it is no wonder that 74% of employers say they will adopt a hybrid model.

Discover the highlights from Mercer’s 2022 Flexible Working Policies and Practices Survey which spanned 227 Canadian Employers and see key insights from the 2022 Inside Employees’ Minds Report, which captured the feedback from over 2,000 Canadian employees.

What employees want

Good news for employers — hybrid workers are the happiest. They feel the greatest sense of belonging, satisfaction and that their career goals can be met.

But there is still a difference between what is being offered and what employees desire

  Full-time on-site Hybrid Full-time remote
What employers are offering *. 22% 53% 23%
What employees want **. 10% 53% 37%

Source:

* 2022 Canada Flexible Working Policies and Practices Survey

** 2022 Inside Employees’ Minds


What employers can do next

74%

of employers offer flex time (e.g., adjusted start and stop times)
as part of their flexible working strategy

40%

of employers also offer part-time schedules in their flexible working approach

25%

have, or are considering offering, a 4-day workweek to all or some employees

12%

offer variable shift lengths

15%

offer phased or flexible retirement

Source: 2022 Canada Flexible Working Policies and Practices Survey

Are your programs competitive in today’s tight labor market when flexibility is more important than ever?

Visit our website for more insight into what’s top of mind for employees. Consider purchasing the Flexible Working Policies and Practices Survey and benchmark your program. Industry and custom reports are available.

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