87% of Hong Kong candidates prioritise work flexibility in choosing job offers

They're expecting options of working from home.

An overwhelming 87 per cent of candidates polled in Hong Kong say flexibility is a top consideration when weighing up an offer from a potential new employer, according to recruiting experts Hays.

The latest poll conducted by Hays reveals only six per cent of candidates in Hong Kong were unsure about how they would rate flexibility as a job hunting consideration.

Dean Stallard, Regional Director of Hays in Hong Kong says the poll results are a symbol of the generational change that is influencing the way candidates want to work in 2017.

“Candidates are expecting greater flexibility around their hours of work which in turn, has increased their work-life balance expectations along with the ability to choose options such as ‘active-desking’ or to work from home for example” says Dean.

The introduction of flexible working practices has become more popular as it not only allows an organisation to retain critical skills, but it can also widen the pool of potential talent to include candidates that need such flexibility to remain in the workforce.

As Dean adds further, “the promotion of a modern work environment with new technology and constant challenges is becoming more important in attracting candidates with a greater need for flexibility. These candidates will be attracted to employers that can satisfy their interest for variety and modern technology as this will be more conducive to the alignment of flexible working practices”.

The poll was conducted across five key Asian employment markets with candidates across the region also showing a strong preference for flexible working practices.