Disconnecting from Work: The Right to Unplug

Recent research has revealed that a staggering 58% of workers feel pressured to respond to work messages outside of their working hours. This expectation to be constantly available is not reflected by the majority of business executives, with 59% stating they do not expect employees to reply to messages after hours.

The proposed 'right to disconnect' bill in California, which aims to establish work-life boundaries, has received overwhelming support from both employees and business executives. 83% of workers and 75% of business execs are in favor of the legislation, which would allow employees to disconnect from work communications once their contracted hours end.

While hybrid and remote work environments have offered greater flexibility, they have also blurred the lines between work and personal life. Small business employees, in particular, feel the strongest obligation to be available, with 67% feeling compelled to answer messages beyond their work hours.

Interestingly, one in three business executives still expect their staff to be on call outside of office hours, with 14% likely to oppose the right to disconnect legislation. This highlights a noticeable divide between worker expectations and company culture.

As the conversation around the right to disconnect continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how this legislation will shape the future of work and potentially influence other regions around the globe.