What UK employees look for when working remotely

The concept of working remotely continues to increase, both in terms of adoption and discussion, as businesses look to meet the work-life balance expectations of staff.

However, it turns out that working remotely isn’t all about sitting indoors in the comfort of one’s home, as is usually imagined.

According to Premier Inn, a survey of office workers found that hotels are the most popular space to get work done, preferred by 79 per cent. This is followed by coffee shops with 36 per cent and libraries for 34 per cent.

At 87 per cent, most respondents said they’re now away from the office and working remotely more than ever before.

In terms of amenities, WiFi was the most desired feature, chosen by 81 per cent. Elsewhere, 64 per cent sought a quiet or convenient location, 48 per cent want no timings to adhere to and 43 per cent, thinking of creature comforts, want snack access.

“With over a third of office workers preferring to work from a hotel room or lobby, rather than sitting in a nearby coffee shop or office space, it’s clear that working habits are very much evolving,” said Ed Fotheringham, head of sales at Premier Inn.

“People are looking to beat weekday rush hours and we have seen a trend for people checking into their hotel rooms earlier than ever before to ensure they can finish off that important pitch or presentation.”

Half of Brits said that working remotely means avoiding office distractions, 44 per cent cited convenience, while 28 per cent said it increases productivity and a fifth like to escape office crowding.

That said, although there are many benefits, workers are missing some things about the office – 28 per cent said they can’t easily generate ideas with colleagues, while 23 per cent were less worried about the task at hand and would pine for office gossip.

While Brits may have certain desires when it comes to working remotely, a study found they also have “adventurous” bedroom desires after travelling for business.

Image: Shutterstock

Share this story