With furlough ending at the end of this month, many returning workers are looking for a reduced hours or a pay rise according to new research.
A survey of these furloughed workers by Canada Life found that a third (33 per cent) will ask their employer for a pay rise once furlough ends and 43 per cent are looking for a phased return to work. Just under half (49 per cent) say that while they were working full time before going on furlough, they would now prefer to work part-time.
However, many are far less optimistic they will be able to make such demands with 46 per cent of those surveyed saying they are concerned that they won’t have a job to go back to when the scheme ends.
Furloughed workers seem divided about their future prospects. Nearly six out of 10 (57 per cent) said they were looking forward to returning to their old jobs at the end of this month. More than half (51 per cent) are optimistic about the future, however, half also say they are worried that their hours will be reduced when they do return to work.
The findings also reveal that time on furlough has made some employees rethink their careers entirely, with 45 per cent hoping to get a new job once furlough ends, while two in five (41 per cent) would like to change careers.
Dan Crook, protection sales director, Canada Life Insurance, comments: “The pandemic has clearly prompted many of us to reflect on our day-to-day lives, hopes and ambitions, and this is no different when it comes to our working patterns. While some furloughed workers are looking for more support from their employer, whether that be financial or flexible working, others are rethinking their careers entirely.
“The end of this scheme presents a unique situation for both employers and their staff and there is no blueprint of what a successful return to work looks like. As employers look to welcome staff back from furlough, whether that be in the workplace or virtually, the varied perspectives of employees must be carefully considered.
“Ultimately employers must work collaboratively with their workforce to listen to their concerns and wishes while still focusing on the best business outcomes and ensuring flexibility.”
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