UK Workers Want Hybrid Work, But Struggle With Remote Onboarding

New research from Microsoft and YouGov shows that 51% of UK workers would consider leaving their jobs if their hybrid work models were taken away.

According to new research from Microsoft in partnership with YouGov, over half of UK workers who have flexible work arrangements would consider leaving their jobs if their hybrid options were taken away.

This revelation follows new data from the Office for National Statistics, which found that job moves and resignations in the UK are at the highest level in two decades.

While Microsoft’s research indicates that UK workers are seeking out roles that offer more flexibility, the onboarding process during this time has also had its fair share of challenges.

For instance, 36% of respondents who started a new job during the pandemic spent the entire onboarding process remote. 

According to these respondents, the challenges that exist with remote onboarding processes include forming relationships, not having a leader around for guidance, learning new software, and embracing company culture.

Even HR decision makers have felt the impact of remote onboarding, with 36% stating that this process has made it difficult to provide proper training for new employees.

“The pandemic has proven that organisations can trust their people to be productive wherever they are. They now have an opportunity to reshape work around individual roles, preferences and even personal lives,” said Nick Hedderman, Director of Modern Work Business Group at Microsoft UK. “This is achievable through tech-enabled hybrid working models, which supports the creation of a rich digital culture to benefit everyone, helping to attract and retain top talent.”