Majority of workers would trade remote work for security: Randstad
CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES — A new global survey by Randstad reveals that most workers now prioritize job security and employability over the ability to work remotely.
According to the Workmonitor Pulse Survey, which polled over 5,250 employees across Australia, Germany, Italy, Japan, Poland, the United Kingdom, and the United States between March 28 and April 9, 2025, 67% of respondents said they would choose greater employability or the ability to stay relevant, skilled, and secure in a changing job market over remote work options.
“Against the backdrop of persistent talent scarcity and a shifting economic environment, talent are making thoughtful decisions about what they value most—like employability, well-being and time flexibility,” said Randstad CEO Sander van ‘t Noordende.
Flexibility still matters, but time autonomy leads
While remote work remains popular, the Randstad survey shows workers are even more interested in controlling their schedules.
Fifty-nine percent would prefer autonomy over their working hours to a higher salary, and 56% would rather control their hours than their work location. This trend is particularly strong among younger generations: 61% of millennials and 60% of Gen Z prioritize time autonomy over pay, compared to 57% of Gen X and 54% of baby boomers.
Nearly half of Gen Z (49%) and 43% of millennials have already accepted lower pay for greater time flexibility, highlighting a generational shift in how flexibility is defined and valued.
Stress reduction and retention factors
Well-being is also a top concern. Sixty percent of workers say they would rather have less stress at work than earn a higher salary, with 40% having already taken lower-paying roles to reduce stress. Additionally, 43% have accepted jobs with limited career progression for better work-life balance.
When employers require a return to on-site work, employees expect more in return: 65% want greater schedule flexibility, 64% expect higher pay, and 61% want more annual leave.
Retention is driven by three main factors: inflation-matching pay increases (74%), strong manager support (68%), and alignment with company values (67%). Extended leave and support for family care are also important to many workers.
Employers urged to respond
Van ‘t Noordende emphasized, “Leaders who respond with flexibility, fairness and long-term vision, will be best positioned to attract and retain talent as the value exchange must feel fair to both parties to be successful.”
The findings suggest that while remote work is valued, job security and the ability to shape one’s work schedule have become the new priorities for today’s workforce.
