JLL’s Workforce Preference Barometer finds that the locus of employer–employee conflict has shifted from 'where' to 'when'—workers increasingly demand control over schedules rather than just location. The report surveyed 8,700 workers and found 66% operate under structured hybrid policies, while 65% now rank work–life balance above salary. The survey identifies a "flexibility gap": a majority say flexible hours would improve quality of life, yet fewer currently have that benefit. Companies face a mismatch between formal policies and employee expectations, with implications for retention and productivity. Academic administrators should watch the trend as it affects scheduling for staff, research teams, and adjunct faculty, and as institutions design hybrid work rules that balance operational needs with retention of high‑value employees.