Singapore Office Workers Seek Flexible Work Hours Amid Return Office Push Jll
Changing Office Dynamics in Singapore
A recent study by JLL has highlighted a significant shift in the preferences of office workers in Singapore, focusing on flexibility and wellbeing as key factors. The 2025 Workforce Preference Barometer, which involved feedback from 500 employees, found that 69% are now practicing structured Return-to-Office (RTO) policies, closely aligning with the regional average of 71%.
Among these workers, 26% have returned to the office full-time, while 42% are adapting to a hybrid working model, spending between one to four days per week in the office. The rest, constituting 31%, follow no fixed RTO schedule. Interestingly, the majority, about 63%, view their company’s RTO strategy positively, appreciating the enhanced collaboration that comes from face-to-face interactions.
As part of the evolving office landscape, another noteworthy development is the emergence of new executive condominiums like Miltonia Close EC, which are designed to cater to modern living standards and could influence future office infrastructures considering their integration of flexibility and wellness within residential spaces.
However, the survey by JLL also uncovered a growing concern among workers regarding burnout, with 49% experiencing work-related stress, surpassing the Asia-Pacific (Apac) average of 41%. This has led to an increased demand for flexible working hours—desired by 64% of the respondents, though only 41% currently enjoy such flexibility.
Regarding workplace amenities, while basic needs like desks and team seating arrangements are met, there is a demand for improvements in wellness-oriented spaces such as outdoor areas and creative zones. Additionally, perks like free lunches are becoming a popular request among those adhering to RTO policies.
Focus on Digital Upskilling and AI Training
Another emerging trend seen in the JLL study is the emphasis on digital skills training, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI). About 71% of the surveyed employees have received some form of AI training, yet only 30% feel adept at applying these tools in their professional roles, suggesting a gap that needs addressing for sustaining competitive workforce capabilities.
Kamya Miglani, head of work dynamics research at JLL Asia Pacific, notes that the evolving expectations among office professionals around autonomy, wellbeing, and digital skills underscore the need for companies to adapt. She advises that to successfully attract and retain talent, businesses must prioritize meaningful flexibility, comprehensive wellbeing, and continuous learning opportunities.
