Nearly 2 in 3 Singapore workers feel pressure to be ‘always-on’ even as workplaces become more flexible, according to study
85% of Singapore employers say workers are expected to be ‘always available’ often or somewhat often, the study says
Singapore's workers feel intense pressure to be "always-on" at work, despite workplaces becoming more flexible, according to a study. Out of 600 employees and jobseekers surveyed, as well as 200 employers, nearly two-thirds (63%) of Singaporean workers feel the need to respond to work-related requests almost every day (32%) or a few times a week (31%).
The study defines "always-on" as being responsive and reachable, even outside of regular working hours. Notably, flexibility alone has not eliminated the "always-on" culture, but rather, it is more about the visibility of availability across different times and locations.
Workers are primarily concerned about salary growth (60%) and the cost of living (60%), followed by job security and stability (48%). To cope with the "always-on" pressure, around 45% of workers respond quickly to requests, remain available even outside working hours, and take initiative. However, 63% of workers reported that this way of working has reduced their energy and job satisfaction.
Furthermore, 62% of workers noted that it has not affected their career progression or recognition at work, while 18% even reported a decline in their quality of work. Despite 81% of employers recognizing the downsides of this work culture, only 48% plan to introduce related policies in the near future.
Written by urgent.news from The Independent Singapore's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
