The way we work has changed. What employees expect from their jobs is not the same as it was a decade ago and businesses that fail to recognise this shift will struggle to attract and retain top talent.
In the wake of the pandemic, employees in Ireland’s expectations around flexibility, well-being, and benefits have shifted as they now define the workplace. Salaries are still important, of course, but they are no longer enough. Companies that want to future-proof their workforce need to think beyond salary and focus on what really matters: a workplace that supports employees, wherever they are, and benefits that make a difference.
Remote and hybrid work was once a privilege. Now, in Ireland, it is a right – at least to request it. That doesn’t mean employers have to say yes, but refusing without a solid reason could hurt a company’s reputation. As businesses compete for talent, offering flexible work options has moved from a bonus to an expectation. Digital nomads are on the rise and Ireland is also making moves to position itself as a hub for remote workers. This means companies hiring international talent need to consider tax and compliance implications. For Canadian businesses with Irish employees, this isn’t just a local shift, it’s the global reality that adapting to Ireland’s approach to hybrid work could be the key to staying competitive in the talent market.
But flexibility alone isn’t enough, there is also employee wellbeing. Once a corporate buzzword, now a business imperative with Irish regulations placing increasing emphasis on mental health.
Employers are expected to take serious steps in supporting their workforce or they risk consequences, whether through legal action, burnout-driven turnover, or a demotivated workforce. This goes beyond offering an occasional wellness webinar. Companies that are paying attention are implementing real mental health strategies, support services, flexible work structures, and proper training for managers so they can effectively support their teams. The comparison with Canada is striking. Mental health awareness is integrated into many Canadian workplaces in a way that Ireland is still catching up to. But expectations from employees are rising and they aren’t waiting around for companies to catch up, they want real action, today.
For businesses operating across borders, the message is clear: benefits packages that work in Canada won’t necessarily work in Ireland, where expectations around paid leave, pensions, and work-life balance are shaped by different regulations and workplace norms. The companies that will succeed in this shifting landscape are the ones that take a proactive approach and realise that work-life balance is not just a phrase, it’s the difference between employees staying in a job or walking away.
Future-proofing your workforce isn’t about chasing trends; it’s about recognising and accepting that the nature of work has changed. Employees expect more, and businesses that rise to the occasion will have the advantage. Trust Matters helps businesses navigate this reality, ensuring they don’t just stay compliant but stay competitive.