Flexible working hours and pay top the list of factors driving job satisfaction among UK employees, new research from productivity and performance coaching provider Avilio has found.
Financial reward remains the strongest motivator, cited by 44% of workers surveyed. However, flexible working — defined as being able to adjust working hours — was almost as important, chosen by 41%. By comparison, hybrid working, which focuses on location rather than schedule, ranked lower at 33%.
The findings are based on a nationally representative survey of 1,284 UK employees commissioned by Avilio to explore what contributes most to job satisfaction. The data suggest that when people work now matters more than where they work — particularly among older employees.
Respondents aged 35–54 were the most likely to prioritise flexible hours (45%), followed closely by those aged 55 and over (42%). Younger workers aged 18–34 valued it less, at 37%, with many instead placing greater emphasis on career progression (31% compared with 22% overall).
Across all age groups, other key factors included enjoying good relationships with colleagues (39%) and being able to provide for themselves and their families (36%). Receiving praise at work (32%), having challenging and interesting tasks (31%), and doing work that makes a social impact (29%) were also cited.
Avilio CEO Philippe Masson said: “This data highlights a clear shift in what employees value in their jobs. While the pandemic brought widespread hybrid working, simply allowing people to work from home is no longer enough to help them manage their work-life balance.
“Beyond financial rewards, employees now prioritise the ability to adjust their working hours, so allowing them the freedom to choose when they work could be a particularly significant factor for many prospective and existing employees in the coming years. To retain their talent and truly support their teams, employers must ensure that flexibility is embedded in the culture and backed by policies that are practical, consistent, and responsive to employees’ needs.”
Masson added that flexibility is particularly valued by older workers who may have additional responsibilities such as childcare or elder care. “A one-size-fits-all approach to supporting wellbeing simply won’t work,” he said. “Providing meaningful flexibility is now the most effective way to reduce stress and boost productivity, and employers who get this right will empower their workforce to thrive.”
The full set of responses places flexible working above hybrid models and career advancement, pointing to a post-pandemic recalibration of what UK workers consider essential to professional satisfaction.
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