Working parents prefer flexibility over salary

Children will be heading back to school soon, and many working parents are already thinking about how they’ll handle their work-life balance in the coming year. A new survey by FlexJobs shows employees with children 18 and younger value flexibility over higher salary when it comes to job perks.

The survey of nearly 1200 working parents revealed that 91% said having children affects their interest in a flexible job. Luckily, only 4% said they think seeking a better work-life balance will hurt their career progression.

When those surveyed were asked what they consider most when looking for a new job, 84% said the most important factor is work flexibility, followed closely by work-life balance (80%). Salary lagged behind significantly at 75%, while health insurance, company reputation and retirement benefits trailed the three top priorities at 42%, 39% and 29%, respectively.

The most popular flexible arrangement for working parents is telecommuting full time (89%). Also in demand are flexible schedules (74%), part-time hours (51%), working from home part time (49%), alternative hours (49%) and freelance options (42%).

Asked why these working parents seek flexible arrangements, 84% said it’s for a better work-life balance, while 83% want to spend more time with their family. While the majority of parents said they “need” to work to cover family expenses, 68% commented that they’ “want” to work – and 91% were positive they could simultaneously be great employees and great parents.

But it’s not all about the kids; 98% of working parents said they believe having a flexible job would have a positive impact on their overall quality of life. They also think they’d be less stressed (87%), would be more healthy (78%) and would save money (88%).

Read the full results of the survey at bit.ly/2bCd4Il