Telecommuting: Bridging the benefits between worker and employer in France

Michael Page and Page Personnel were interested in the rise of teleworking and the perception of employees today. How many have access? How often do they use it? And what, according to them, are the main motivations of employers to develop teleworking?

Employees in demand, a practice that is becoming more democratic

The Michael Page and Page Personnel French study highlights the rise of telecommuting, also called "telework", with an increase of 11% in barely a year. In 2018, 38% of French employees reported having the opportunity to work from home, compared to 27% in 2017. They are even more and more frequently using this flexible solution since current numbers estimate about 44% telework at least twice a month, compared with 31% in 2017. 

These figures represent a significant step forward in companies, many of which, beyond the deployment of the information systems needed for teleworking, continue to democratize the practice. And for good reason: the possibility of telecommuting today brings a certain attractiveness to a position that bodes well for company talent retention. Of those who do not yet have access to this new way of working, 64% would like to be able to benefit from it in their company. 

An impact on the balance of life widely perceived

73% of French employees with access to telework believe that this has a positive impact on their life balance, an increase of 24% compared to 2017.

This practice would facilitate concentration for 65% of employees, but also the management of time (61%) and would have a positive effect on health (54%). In other words, telework offers employees a more relaxed work environment.

Stephanie Lecerf, Human Resources Director at PageGroup, commented on the benefits of the work style:

"The democratization of telework is a major step forward. It allows for a better balance of work and personal life for employees - greater flexibility in scheduling, the removal of commuting time and the reduction of stress sometimes related to the work environment are some of these advantages - and a better management of spaces and productivity for the employer."

A win-win situation

Interestingly, employees are well aware that for businesses, teleworking is an important tool for enhancing workplace wellbeing and performance.

60% see telecommuting as an opportunity for the company to improve the work-life balance of employees, and 54% and 51% see it as an approach to reducing costs and a desire to see productivity increase.

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