Half of U.S. employees considering looking for new job if employer reduces flexibility: survey

However, more than half (56 per cent) of respondents said employees who work mainly in the office are more likely to be successful in their jobs. The majority (85 per cent) said team building is better managed in person, as is integrating new team members (84 per cent), training and managing teams (78 per cent), kicking off a new project (76 per cent), performance discussions (68 per cent) and meetings (65 per cent).

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While employees cited increased socialization (46 per cent), the ability to leave work at work (35 per cent), improved collaboration (33 per cent) and more productivity (32 per cent) among the benefits of in-person work, they expressed concerns about the impact on work-life balance (48 per cent), time spent commuting (41 per cent), increased costs (36 per cent), stress (33 per cent) and happiness (26 per cent).

A third (34 per cent) of respondents said they’re willing to sacrifice a dedicated workspace in exchange for more remote work, while only 17 per cent would sacrifice pay for increased remote work. Notably, only 30 per cent said their employer has solicited their input on remote and hybrid work flexibility.

“Employers are wise to tread carefully when making changes to their remote and hybrid work policies,” said Melissa Jezior, president and chief executive officer of Eagle Hill Consulting, in a press release. “While in-person work has benefits, reducing the flexibility that many workers crave could backfire in terms of employee retention, morale and company culture. It’s important for employers to understand workers do see the value of in-person work, but they view some tasks as better performed remotely and they don’t want mandates.”

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