The majority of UK-based employees (77%) would actively search for or be open to a new job if their company rolled back flexible work policies, according to the latest Greenhouse Candidate Experience report.

This report, which surveyed over 800 UK-based employees, points to the new expectations around work, with most workers feel that flexibility is not just a pandemic perk.

The data also found that inflexible companies will struggle to hire top talent, over 40% of candidates will not apply for a role that doesn’t offer their preferred working model. As more companies mandate a return to the office, hybrid remains the preferred working model for almost half (47%) of all workers while over 11% prefer a fully remote model, showing that workers want a flexible mix of in-person and remote work.

Meanwhile, the four-day work week is proven to be an attractive offering with almost 70% saying they would be more likely or will only apply to a job that offers it.

Candidates looking for new job roles value pay transparency and whether or not a company chooses to publish salary ranges can influence their decision to apply for a role. Over 40% of respondents are more likely to apply to a job posting that includes a salary range. Nearly one-quarter of respondents (24%) are less likely to or will not apply to a role if it does not include a salary range.

The research also showed that 57% of respondents have been ghosted by UK employers after a job interview. Despite companies committing to DEI efforts, the report found that the hiring process is still plagued with bias as many fail to invest in fair and inclusive hiring processes.

Historically underrepresented candidates face a 20% higher chance of being ghosted, compared to white candidates, the reported noted. In a role reversal, men are 28% more likely to be ghosted than women by prospective employers.

“The report highlights that workplace expectations have changed significantly since the pandemic,” said Colm O’Cuinneain, General Manager of EMEA at Greenhouse. “Hybrid work is seen as the new norm given its proven success over the last few years. Also, salary transparency is sought after more than ever before. Organisations need to adapt to this new era of recruitment conditions or run the risk of missing out on top talent and ultimately business success.”

When considering a new job opportunity, workers commonly cited less competitive compensation (35%) and lack of job security (25%) as top reasons for leaving a job, and factors like lack of clear career advancement opportunities (24%). A mismatch in company culture to what was advertised (17%) and lack of transparency from leaders (17%) rounded out the list.

Workers cite the following reasons they’ve been attracted to a new job: Increased compensation/salary (53%); Greater job security (42%); Better flexible work policies like remote or hybrid (33%); Greater career advancement opportunities (30%); A greater and more positive company culture (25%).

The research also noted that 16% of candidates will not apply for job unless they fit all the skills required.