The majority of workers say that they'd be more productive when they're not actually in the office, but instead are working from home.

So finds a FlexJobs workplace survey, which queried respondents not just on their productivity but on other work-related issues. And not only do 65 percent of respondents say that working at home would make them more productive, they've got plenty of reasons ticked off to back up that statement.

While 75 percent say there would be fewer distractions, 74 percent say there would be fewer interruptions from colleagues—an assertion that could be tough to argue with. In addition, 71 percent point out that there would be less stress from commuting and 65 percent cite the absence of office politics.

Why worry about such things? Considering that it's estimated that less than 60 percent of time in the office is spent productively, actions taken to boost productivity could pay off in a big way.

Employers also might want to note that prospective employees rank work/life balance higher, at 73 percent, than salary, at 70 percent; 76 percent of respondents said they'd be more loyal to employers if they had flexible work options; 28 percent of respondents said they'd actually take a pay cut if they were given the option to telecommute; and just 8 percent of workers said they prefer going to the office to do important work.

Employees also have plenty of reasons to want a flexible job. Since 2013, FlexJobs says, work-life balance (76 percent), family (44 percent), time savings (42 percent) and commute stress (42 percent) have been the top four reported reasons people seek flexible work. In fact, 61 percent have actually left or considered leaving a job because it didn't provide them with work flexibility.

A whopping 80 percent of those who want flexible work actually want one that allows 100 percent telecommuting, while 71 percent want one that permits flexible schedules. And if they've got it, they use it; of those who telecommuted in 2017, 22 percent telecommuted more this year than last year. And 97 percent are interested in being a flexible worker in the long term.

Just 3 percent of respondents worry a lot that a flexible work arrangement will hurt their career progression, and since 83 percent of respondents say they know someone who telecommutes, they're likely to continue to pursue such an option for themselves.

Instant Insights /

Employees say they're more productive working at home

More From HR Executive

Related Stories

Recommended For You