Lack of flexibility is driving Hongkongers to quit their jobs

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41% of Gen Zers have reportedly resigned from their jobs because it did not provide them with enough flexibility.

Over a quarter (29%) of Hongkongers said that they have resigned from their jobs before because it did not provide them with enough flexibility, according to Randstad's latest 2022 Workmonitor survey. The bi-annual survey highlights the workforce’s latest sentiments and perceptions of the local job market, and the results squeeze an already-tight talent market even further.

This development was particularly evident among younger workers with 41% of Gen Zers saying they had resigned from their jobs because it did not provide them with enough flexibility. The expectations for work flexibility taper down as people get older, according to the the survey only 19% of respondents aged between 45 and 54 years old said that they would quit their jobs if they do not have enough flexibility.

"The new generations of workers joined the workforce under very different circumstances as compared to the previous generations. They tend to use their laptops and smartphones to reply to emails, attend meetings, and take notes," said Benjamin Elms, Regional Director at Randstad Hong Kong in a press release.

"Some of them started work during lockdowns and have only experienced remote working. While these new technologies help them to be more efficient at work, it is critical for companies to redefine how work flexibility should look like for their workforce and offer employees more flexibility to choose when and where they want to work.”

An important note for employers trying to attract top talent - one-third (32%) of respondents said they wouldn't accept a job if it doesn't provide flexibility around where they work. Similarly, more than half of the respondents (55%) said that it is important that they have the flexibility to choose their work location.

However, only 41% said that their employers give them the option to choose where they want to work from. While 35% said they wouldn't accept a job if it doesn't provide flexibility around when they work. In Hong Kong SAR, 65% of respondents said that they want to have the flexibility to choose their working hours.

“When people have more flexibility to choose when they want to work, it gives them more autonomy over their tasks. Rather than let the stipulated office hours decide when they should work and rest, they can plan their time more efficiently to meet deadlines as well as have enough time for their personal life,” added Elms.

 Photo / Randstad's 2022 Workmonitor survey

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