Factors affecting the choice of hybrid working: an empirical study of interns in economic in Ha Noi

Abstract

Hybrid working has become an increasingly popular flexible work arrangement that enhances productivity and work-life balance. However, prior studies have primarily focused on full-time employees in developed countries, while interns remain underexplored, particularly in emerging economies such as Vietnam. This study aims to identify the factors influencing the choice of hybrid working among economics interns in Hanoi. A mixed-method approach was employed, in which qualitative interviews were conducted to refine the measurement scales, followed by a quantitative survey of 298 interns. The data were analyzed using SPSS and AMOS, applying exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and structural equation modeling (SEM). The results indicate that career development opportunities, work performance, and work-life balance have significant positive effects on hybrid work choice, with career development opportunities exerting the strongest effect. Based on these findings, the study suggests that organizations should design hybrid work models that support professional development, enhance performance, and maintain work-life balance for interns. This study contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence that interns prioritize career development over work-life balance when choosing hybrid work, thereby extending research in the context of developing countries