According to a new global study from the ADP Research Institute, workers are feeling the pressure of presenteeism despite the rise of flexible working arrangements.
The ADP Workforce View 2020 Volume Two post-COVID-19 report found that 54% of employees have felt pressured by their employer to physically come into work during the pandemic.
Of the 11,000 respondents, the pressure was felt strongest among 18-to-24-year-olds compared to those over the age of 55.
“The idea that employers are pushing for presenteeism – even if that means going against official warnings – is worryingly widespread, and for some workers it’s a persistent issue,” said Jeff Phipps, Managing Director at ADP UK. “Presenteeism is far from a new concern and the risks have long been clear, but in the midst of a global pandemic, insistent pressure to be in the office can put employees’ lives in danger. Plus, if workers are feeling pressured to turn up for work in person, whether that pressure is real or imagined, it can have a negative impact on their wellbeing and morale.”
These findings coincide with the increase of companies becoming more open to flexible working arrangements, with 44% of respondents saying their employers now have an official flex work policy. However, only 18% said they felt empowered to take advantage of this work option.
