November 2023 Annual Remote Working Survey finds remote working opportunities strongly impact employment decision-making

Survey shows that 44% indicated that they would change job, even if it means a pay cut, if their remote working preferences are not facilitated

Researchers from University of Galway and the Western Development Commission have revealed that 92% of respondents indicated that remote/hybrid working would be a key factor in their decision to change employer. 

The findings are from the first of three data collection waves of the 2023 annual National Remote Working Survey, led by Professor Alma McCarthy at University of Galway and Deirdre Frost, Policy Analyst at the Western Development Commission.  

The survey gathered responses from almost 6,000 respondents in late September and early October on their experience of remote working. 

Professor Alma McCarthy, Professor of Public Sector Management and Dean of J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics at University of Galway, emphasised the sustained desire to work hybrid or remotely for roles where this is possible and the impact on career decision-making.  

"Our previous annual surveys showed the growing appetite for remote or hybrid working and the 2023 survey provides evidence of this sustained trend.  For those who can work remotely or hybrid for at least some of the time, being able to do so now plays a critical role in employer and job choice,” Professor McCarthy said.

Findings include:

• 59% of respondents are currently working hybrid (sometimes remotely, sometimes onsite) and 38% are working fully remotely. Only 3% are working fully onsite. 
• 55% of respondents indicated that they would change job if their remote working/hybrid working preferences are not facilitated even if it means less promotion opportunities. 
• 19% of respondents say they would consider relocating and 15% may consider relocating due to their experiences of remote working since COVID-19. 13.7% indicated that they have already relocated within Ireland since COVID-19 because they can work remotely.
• The vast majority, 88.7% of those working hybrid, work remotely at home. A small portion work remotely from a mix of their home, hub and at client sites, 7.9%.
• 75% of respondents’ employers are now operating a remote/hybrid working policy. 

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, TD, reinforced the Government's commitment to remote work as a cornerstone of Our Rural Future saying: "Our investment in remote working infrastructure is paying dividends by helping to revitalise rural communities. The 2023 Annual Remote Work Survey conducted by University of Galway and the Western Development Commission highlights the continuing interest in remote working. Government policy and in particular the Connected Hubs initiative is supporting remote workers and employers, ensuring that we attract and retain talent and build a brighter future for our rural communities."

Allan Mulrooney, Chief Executive of the Western Development Commission, said: "The latest national survey findings underscore a significant shift in our perspective on remote work. They reveal that Irish workers now anticipate a continued embrace of the hybrid work model to better align with their lifestyles. Remote work has paved the way for novel opportunities in talent attraction and retention, effectively luring young families and new talented workers to revive regions that have borne the brunt of depopulation and declining job prospects for many years. If we persist in prioritising and fostering an environment conducive to remote work, the lasting impact, particularly in rural areas, is undeniable."

The findings from 2023 survey can be viewed here 

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