06-26-2024
Stanford University researchers released the results of a recent study on hybrid work. They announced, "The results are clear: Hybrid work is a win-win-win for employee productivity, performance, and retention." Nicholas Bloom, the Stanford author, published the data in nature from a "six-month randomized control trial investigating the effects of hybrid working from home on 1,612 employees in a Chinese technology company [Trip.com] in 2021–2022.” These employees worked in engineering, marketing, and finance positions. Three hundred and ninety-five of them worked in managerial positions. The number of employees who intended to quit fell by about one-third for hybrid employees, with these numbers the highest for non-managers, female employees, and those with long commutes. The researchers also looked at performance reviews over the two years and did not find differences in promotions. The research subjects worked two days a week from home and three days a week in the office. Unsurprisingly, hybrid employees showed higher satisfaction with work-life balance, work satisfaction, and life satisfaction.
A UK study by Mortar Research reflects similar findings. Hybrid working makes employees “happier, healthier, and more productive” (The Guardian). Most of the participants reported feeling less drained, less stressed, and less anxious. Three-quarters reported that returning to work full-time in the office would damage their well-being. Improved well-being benefits employers — about 75% of these workers felt "more productive" and "more motivated," according to the study. An expert interviewed by The Guardian notes these findings emphasize why "a hybrid work arrangement is the most in-demand benefit" requested by job applicants. Flexible work arrangements reportedly attract younger staff and reduce labor shortages.