More than half (61%) of 1 320 global executives surveyed say they believe telecommuters are less likely to advance in their careers in comparison to employees working in traditional office settings, according to the latest Leaders Unlimited Korn/Ferry International Quiz.
Despite this assertion, nearly half (48%) of respondents indicated they would consider a job which involved telecommuting on a regular basis and the vast majority (a combined 78%) stated that telecommuters are either equally or more productive than those who work in offices.
When asked which type of flexible working arrangement they found most attractive, nearly half (46%) of respondents most preferred the option of working flexible hours.
"Smart employers know that flexible working conditions can be an effective means to creating a productive workforce," said Leaders Unlimited partner Annelize van Rensburg.
"Often when employers offer the option of flexible hours and telecommuting, they help employees maintain balance in other parts of their lives which, in turn, fosters loyalty, satisfaction and retention."
The quiz also examined whether sabbaticals or extended breaks have any effect on one's career. More than half (a combined 64%) believe they are either somewhat or extremely beneficial.
Methodology
The Futurestep Trends@Work Quiz is based on a global survey of executives registered within the Korn/Ferry International family of Web sites. Respondents from 71 countries, representing a wide spectrum of industries and functional areas, participated in the most recent Trends@Work Quiz between October and November 2006.
For more information, please contact Annelize van Rensburg on 011 722 1600 or on her cell at 082 338 2646.
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