Office workers raise concerns as flexibility gaps widen

Gaps persist in access to outdoor areas, wellness zones, recharge spaces, and creative collaboration environments.

Most office workers in Singapore have accepted return-to-office (RTO) policies, but rising expectations around flexibility, wellness, and workplace quality are reshaping what employees now demand, according to JLL.

The study found that 69% of Singapore office workers are now subject to structured RTO mandates. Whilst 63% of respondents expressed overall positive sentiment, 37% raised concerns about the potential impact on productivity and quality of life.

Sentiment appears closely tied to office conditions; 82% of employees satisfied with their work environment reported a positive view of RTO, compared with just 26% among those dissatisfied.

Workers cited strong preferences for improved workplace amenities.

Food topped the list, with four in ten employees calling for free lunches, well above the APAC average. Other sought-after perks included subsidised commuting and enhanced healthcare benefits.

Meanwhile, gaps persist in access to outdoor areas, wellness zones, recharge spaces, and creative collaboration environments.

Flexibility remains a decisive factor in job choices. The report found that 61% of Singapore respondents would choose an employer solely based on flexible work policies.

Whilst 64% want flexible working hours, only 41% currently enjoy such arrangements, a larger gap than seen in other APAC markets.

Burnout is another key concern, with 49% of workers reporting moderate to high burnout levels, higher than the regional average. Employees experiencing burnout were found to be three times more likely to consider leaving their jobs within the next 12 months.

Primary causes cited include lack of recognition, limited development opportunities, and inflexible work structures.

On the technology front, 71% of workers have received employer-led training in AI tools, placing Singapore at the forefront in the region. Yet confidence remains low, with only 30% saying they feel confident using AI at work.

Amongst those aged 50 and above, confidence drops further to 19%, highlighting the need for inclusive and ongoing digital upskilling.

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