1 in 2 Hong Kong workers ready to quit if office hours extended

Nearly half also said they would reject job offers without flexibility.

About 51 percent of Hong Kong workers consider leaving if required to spend more time in the office, surpassing the global average by 14 percent, according to a report from Randstad Hong Kong.

The 2024 Randstad Workmonitor showed that despite 52 percent preferring a five-day office week, 70 percent are currently obligated to work full-time in the office.

Additionally, 46 percent have adjusted their lives for continued hybrid work post-pandemic. 

Benjamin Elms, managing director at Randstad Hong Kong, stressed the importance of comprehensive flexibility, advocating for greater autonomy to align professional aspirations with personal needs.

“Flexibility should be understood in its entirety and complexity, and not just where and when employees are working,” he said. “Rather, employers can explore offering greater autonomy to let people choose what’s best for them based on their professional desires and personal needs.”

Approximately 43 percent are willing to reject job offers lacking flexibility. Generational differences are evident, with Millennials valuing flexibility alongside salary, whilst Baby Boomers prioritise employers offering flexible work arrangements.

Elms also noted the link between workplace equity and work-life balance, stating that an equitable environment fosters psychological safety and support, ultimately reducing stress and improving mental well-being.

Moreover, respondents expect employers to take proactive measures to improve workplace equity, with priorities including family leave for all employees (52 percent), gender pay equity (51 percent), and a diverse workforce (40 percent).

Elms emphasised that whilst equity initiatives may not yield immediate financial returns, they symbolise a company's commitment to its employees and attract highly skilled individuals seeking meaningful contributions to an inclusive workplace culture.