Canadian companies may struggle with a potential talent shortage if they do not address workers’ preferences, including remote and flexible work options. According to a survey conducted by Citrix Systems, Inc. 40 percent of Canadian office workers surveyed have left or are considering leaving their jobs. So what are employees looking for? And what can enterprises do to mitigate its impact?
Among the key findings of the Citrix survey:
Flexibility is Key
Today’s workers prefer flexible arrangements that give them the freedom to choose where they work best, including at home, in the office or on the road.
- 83 percent of respondents said it was “very” or “somewhat” important that they be able to work from anywhere
- 49 percent said they would accept a pay cut in return for the ability to do so
- Canada is leading the U.S. in this regard – 37 percent of Canadian knowledge workers state they currently have the option to fully work remotely compared to only 19 percent in the U.S.
Employee Experience has Never Mattered More
Modern workers want to engage in innovative work, be productive and make meaningful contributions to the business that are valued – without interference from complex technology and processes. As the Citrix survey reveals, they’re likely to move on if they can’t:
- 27 percent of workers polled left jobs for positions that provide more opportunities to innovate and try new things
- 26 percent were not engaged in or passionate about their former role
- 31 percent were frustrated by overly complicated technology and processes
- 33 percent believe they can do more meaningful work in their new roles
- 33 percent feel their contributions are valued and recognized
Fear of the Digital Divide is Real
The global pandemic has made clear that remote work can boost employee engagement and productivity. But as companies transition to hybrid models, there is fear it will open a new digital divide.
Respondents to the Citrix poll support this notion:
- 34 percent believe remote employees will be at a career disadvantage for not working out of a central office location
- 53 percent think they will be less likely to be considered for promotion/advancement opportunities
In addition to revealing why workers are leaving jobs, the Citrix survey also sought to understand what keeps them around. Of the respondents who indicated they have not changed jobs:
- 48 percent like what they do
- 46 percent say their benefits are competitive and beyond financial security, provide for their physical and mental well being
- 42 percent can work flexibly
- 34 percent are afraid to make a change given the ongoing uncertainty
- 29 percent feel trusted and empowered to work when and how they work best
Citrix provides a complete digital workspace platform that companies can use to enable hybrid work and create the space employees need to succeed, wherever they happen to be. Click here to learn more about the company’s solutions and how they can empower your team to be and do their best.
