Hybrid work isn’t just convenient – it’s driving women’s career growth, survey shows
Career21.03.2025
For many of us, the shift to hybrid work has meant more flexibility, fewer commutes, and maybe even the occasional midday dog walk. But according to a new report by the International Workplace Group (IWG), the benefits go even deeper – especially for women.
The report, Advancing Equality: Women in the Hybrid Workplace, reveals that hybrid work is helping level the playing field, giving women better access to higher-level roles, promotions, and the elusive work-life balance.
“Hybrid working isn’t just a workplace trend; it’s a game-changer in fostering workplace equity,” Terri Pozniak, executive vice-president and country manager for Canada at IWG, said in a press release that announced the findings. “This data speaks volumes, showcasing how women are harnessing the flexibility of hybrid work to redefine their career trajectories.”
It’s not just about promotions, either. Nearly 50 per cent of women reported that hybrid work inspired them to take on a new career path, moving into entirely different industries.
Finding better balance
So, how is hybrid work really changing women’s lives?
While women are still shouldering the majority of household chores and unpaid labour, the report shows that cutting out commute time, working remotely, and having a partner occasionally working from home is helping to even things out.
One in four women also said their productivity has increased thanks to the hybrid model, while a whopping 89 per cent said it has improved their work-life balance. According to the IWG report, that newfound flexibility opens the door to more career growth opportunities.
“This shift doesn’t just enhance work/life balance, it unlocks a multitude of fresh professional avenues, empowering women to thrive in diverse roles and driving unprecedented levels of inclusivity and opportunity,” added Pozniak.
A boost to inclusivity
According to the report, hybrid work has also made workplaces more inclusive.
Nearly three-quarters of minority women said the model has given them access to job opportunities they wouldn’t have had otherwise. And 44 per cent reported feeling more efficient and productive.
“The flexibility offered by hybrid working is a great equaliser,” said Fatima Koning, Group Chief Commercial Officer at IWG. “It can make the workplace a far more welcoming environment for those who have previously felt excluded, and everybody benefits.”
The future of work is flexible
As companies across Canada continue to rethink their work models, the data makes one thing clear: hybrid work isn’t just a perk – it’s becoming a dealbreaker for women.
In a previous IWG report, over 70 per cent of women said they would look for a new job if their employer removed the hybrid option.
Whether it’s the better work-life balance or the nearly 30 per cent of women who reported improved mental wellbeing, the message is clear: flexibility matters.
“Having personally experienced the myriad benefits of hybrid working, it’s heartening for me to witness its role in increasing opportunity and driving diversity and inclusion, allowing more women to thrive in their chosen fields,” added Koning. “Women are rejecting corporate cultures and structures that don’t serve them, and companies that aren’t prepared to adapt will see talent depart in favour of their competitors. Hybrid is here to stay, and it’s ushering in a brighter working future for all.”
