Survey: Nearly Half of Working Adults Would Appreciate a Virtual Office

ATLANTA—Flexible work options are a growing priority for working adults when choosing career. So much so that they are willing to sacrifice nearly double the salary percentage from a year-ago Mom Corps survey. A virtual office can drive new heights of flexibility for working moms and others seeking work-life balance.

According to the survey, nearly one in two working adults (45%) are willing to give up some percentage of their salary for more flexibility at work. Specifically, working adults are willing to give up about 10 percent, on average. That’s nearly double the amount of last year’s survey. The 18-34 age group, on average, would be willing to give up almost 14 percent of their salary for more flexible work options. But you don’t have to give up any of your salary to telecommute from a virtual office.

“We are beginning to see significant patterns in the value professionals of all ages place on workplace flexibility,” says Allison O’Kelly, founder and CEO of Mom Corps. “More and more, we feel challenged by the collective pressures of a demanding work life, a hectic personal life, and a desire to find fulfillment in both."

The results are especially significant considering the continued unemployment and uncertainty around the national election. But flexibility, such as telecommuting from a virtual office, continues to win out. Indeed, 61 percent strongly or somewhat agree that flexibility is one of the most important factors they consider when looking for a new job or deciding what company to work for, and 20 percent strongly agree.

Virtual offices can give you plenty of flexibility. Telecommuting from a virtual office allows you, in many cases, to workshift. Workshifting lets you to get your required work done during hours where it’s most convenient for you. If you have a doctor appointment in the middle of the afternoon, for example, workshifting gives you the flexibility to make up for lost time before or after.

Tomorrow we'll take a closer look at the flexible work study and how virtual offices are empowering work-life balance.

About Jennifer LeClaire

Jennifer LeClaire is a veteran business journalist, editor and new media entrepreneur with a strong niche in real estate and technology.