In the latest edition of the “HR Study” conducted by Personio, it was highlighted that hybrid and remote work models are now a priority for European workers when seeking new jobs or considering their stay in a position. 60% of European workers are looking for these models, along with work-life balance practices (71%) and flexible working hours (65%). However, in Spain, the trend is different: the number of employees working remotely is decreasing, and consequently, those operating under a hybrid model.
Various studies corroborate this situation. The Flash Telework Data 2022 report from the National Observatory of Technology and Society (ONTSI) indicates that regular telecommuting, which is done more than half of the workdays, has decreased from 7.9% to 6.4%, while occasional telework has increased. Additionally, the report “The Offices of the Future” by PlanRadar indicates that Spain is not only not favoring the implementation of telework but also predicts a reduction in this model. Spain is the only one of the twelve participating countries in the survey that goes against the trends of the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, among others.
Personio identifies three main reasons for this stance in Spain:
1. The labor structure
Despite advances in digitalization, most jobs that can be done remotely belong to the service sector. In countries like Spain, where the hospitality and tourism sector represented 11.4% of the total jobs in 2021, implementing telework is more challenging. Furthermore, many companies that could adopt this model still face challenges in its proper implementation. HR departments must ensure that workers have adequate spaces both in the office and at their homes.
2. Geographic extension
In countries with a large territorial extension and multiple technological cities, telework is a way to avoid additional expenses of time and money. In the United States, the telework rate can reach 50%, while in Spain, it is stagnant at 15.5%, mainly concentrated in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona. However, technology is gradually facilitating better management of remote work and internal communication.
3. Technology penetration
Even though countries have high economic development, there are still differences in the accessibility and quality of networks. In Spain, issues like the “disconnected Spain” hinder the implementation of telework. Digitalization plays a crucial role in facilitating this model and improving workflow.
According to Angelina Gentili, a Personio expert, companies must be able to manage job flexibility and use technology to promote this freedom, which not only aids in work-life balance but also enhances productivity. “Jobs must evolve to adapt to the new needs and demands of workers. Employee experience and performance are fundamental factors to ensure business resilience,” she asserts.
With these challenges in mind, it is essential for companies in Spain to take measures to overcome barriers and leverage the benefits of telework and hybrid models, benefiting both employees and the organizations themselves.