Workers desire more flexibility, mobility in the workplace

Workers desire increased mobility at work

Tech businesses that are in the market for talent to fill IT architecture, IT security or project management jobs need to understand what company assets and qualities appeal to high-level candidates. A recent study from Microsoft's Canadian division shows more workers desire the ability to work outside of the office.

Microsoft Canada polled employees on their workplace preferences, surveying only those who worked in an office of 10 or more people that also allowed them the ability to work remotely occasionally. The results found that 55 percent of workers felt they were more productive when working offsite.

In what may be a surprise to some, 42 percent of managers said they were comfortable with employees working remotely from time to time, although only around 25 percent believe their workers were as effective out of the office as they were in it.

"As workers juggle longer hours and aim to maintain a work-life balance, employers who can offer flexible workspaces to their employees are leading the pack in becoming employers of choice," according to Mike Kennedy, an executive with one HR solutions firm. "We are seeing more and more that employees are seeking out flexible work arrangements and the opportunity to work outside the office walls."

Working remotely offers employees the ability to finish projects that couldn't be done at the office, avoid distractions and better balance priorities at work and at home.

Though it is important for technology companies to identify the qualities talented candidates seek when job-hunting, doing so is often easier said than done. While flex scheduling is often associated with contractors from IT staffing companies.  A policy for employees that is managed well can improve worker productivity markedly.