Dutch workers have less freedom to work from home, CNV says

Almost one in three Dutch workers has less freedom to work from home than two years ago. Over a quarter of the people surveyed said that their boss is more skeptical regarding working from home than two years ago, labor union CNV reported this based on a study of 1,100 members who have a job that can be handled from home.

Around 60 percent of the people asked were not free to work from wherever they wanted. CNV chair Piet Fortuin called it a missed opportunity, as working from home has many benefits for employees.

“The labor market is tight, and absenteeism is high. Working from home is a quick win to keep employees happy and productive,” Fortuin added. The union is, therefore, pleading for employees to continue having the freedom to work from wherever they want.

Most employees said that working from home results in a better work-life balance, reduced work stress, and better health. In addition, 58 percent said that they are more productive at home than in the office.

One in three respondents claimed that they are more creative when working from home, and only 11 percent felt they were less creative when working from home.

Around 30 percent of the people surveyed said that their employer requires them to work in the office for at least two days a week, and 14 percent have to be in the office for at least three days or more. Tuesday is the day that most employees have to be in the office, followed by Monday and Thursday.