A recent WTW report reveals that nearly two-thirds of U.S. employers have adopted policies requiring employees to work in the office a set number of days per week. However, half of these employers do not specify which days. Employers primarily seek in-office presence for social reasons, believing face-to-face interactions enhance team engagement, corporate culture, and productivity.
Despite this, workers generally prefer remote work. A WTW survey found that 53% of employees who can work remotely would consider changing jobs if required to be in the office full time. To address this, some employers are offering more flexibility, including allowing workers to choose which days to come in and enhancing office amenities like gyms and dining areas.
However, studies suggest that remote work without clear coordination can negatively impact engagement. Research by The Hackett Group in 2023 showed that flexibility combined with manager-employee collaboration improves productivity and retention. Additionally, intentional office design, such as creating spaces for both focus and collaboration, is crucial in fostering engagement and socialization.
The WTW report underscores the ongoing tension between employer policies and employee preferences regarding office work. While employers emphasize in-office presence to boost team engagement and productivity, employees increasingly favor remote work. Offering flexibility, enhancing office amenities, and fostering collaboration are key to balancing both needs and improving engagement.
