Hybrid workers are taking fewer sickies than those who are forced to work from the office, leading to wellbeing and productivity gains, according to new research.

A survey of 4,000 hybrid workers and executives from across the US and UK by the International Workplace Group found that more than a third were taking fewer sick days than when they worked from an office.

More than two-thirds were experiencing fewer stress-related health conditions, and just under three-quarters said that working flexibly meant they were more able to access preventative healthcare treatments.

Of those surveyed, 80 per cent said they had a better work-life balance and reduced anxiety thanks to hybrid work.

On the other side, three-quarters of CEOs said there was improved productivity after a switch to hybrid working, and 77 per cent saw increased employee engagement thanks to this.

“Hybrid and more flexible ways of working are incredibly beneficial for both employees and their employers,” International Workplace Group CEO Mark Dixon said.

“Not only is it universally popular with workers with higher levels of satisfaction and an improved work-life balance reported, but as this research shows, employees are taking fewer sick days, managing stress better, and adopting healthier lifestyles.

“Meanwhile, companies are enjoying higher levels of productivity and lower costs.”

A healthier workforce

A key benefit of hybrid work or working from home leading to reduced stress and anxiety is the reduction in commuting time, with 80 per cent of respondents acknowledging this.

Hybrid work was also found to improve the physical health of workers, with 70 per cent of employees reporting fewer symptoms such as severe headaches, digestive issues and tension-related pain.

These benefits are much needed among Australian workers, with numerous studies finding the workforce is feeling burnt out and overwhelmed with work.

Hybrid work has exploded in popularity since the COVID pandemic, which forced many employees to work from home for the first time.

It has continued in use following the lifting of pandemic restrictions, with many workers reporting huge benefits when it comes to wellbeing and lifestyle.

But it has also led to much debate over productivity and the need to be based in an office, with many large tech companies and some governments moving to end hybrid work and bring their workers back to the physical office.

The debate around hybrid work

Working from home is shaping up to be an election issue in Australia, with Opposition Leader Peter Dutton signalling plans to force all public servants back to the office.

In response, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese voiced full support for working from home, and released research that found doing so could save workers up to $5,000 per year in commuting and parking costs.

More than a third of Australians are still working from home, according to research by the Centre for Economic Development Australia.

And hybrid work is highly valued by Australian workers, with just under 40 per cent saying they would look to quit their job if this flexibility is taken away.

Another popular form of hybrid work is the four-day work week, where employees work one less day per week while maintaining the same level of productivity for the same pay.

The Greens recently launched an election push around the four-day week, with plans to create a national institute to coordinate trials of the concept across the Australian economy, and to back a test case at the Fair Work Commission.

Studies have also found that the four-day work week can improve physical and mental health, and improve productivity and efficiency.