As companies such as Boots, JD Sports and Santander enforce return-to-office (RTO) policies, many employees are resisting the shift.
A new survey from CV writing service TopCV found that a significant number of remote workers are unwilling to give up the flexibility they have become accustomed to since the pandemic.
The survey, conducted among 1,000 career-driven employees, found that 60 percent of remote workers have been required to increase their time in the office over the last two years. Of these, 38 percent must now work in the office five days a week. One in six employees stated they would quit their job if forced to return to the office full-time – suggesting that companies enforcing strict RTO policies are at risk of losing talent.
Work-Life Balance Concerns
The survey found that concerns over work-life balance as a major factor in employee resistance to RTO mandates. More than half (54%) of respondents said returning to the office would have a negative effect on their work-life balance. Many employees have benefited from remote work by eliminating commutes and gaining greater control over their schedules.
Additionally, 30 percent of employees raised concerns about office distractions worsening burnout and mental health struggles. With workplace stress already high among British workers, many see the return to pre-pandemic office routines as an unnecessary disruption.
A generational divide in attitudes towards RTO policies was also evident. Generation X (born 1965-1980) showed the highest compliance, with 40 percent stating they would follow RTO rules to avoid repercussions. In contrast, millennials (born 1981-1996) were the most resistant, with 37 percent planning to ignore policies and 35 percent stating they would seek new job opportunities if forced to return to the office.
Employee incentives could play a role in easing the transition, with 96 percent agreeing that benefits such as flexible schedules or pay rises would make returning to the office more appealing. However, two in five employees believe a return to the office would negatively impact their job satisfaction, citing concerns over work-life balance and mental health.
Incentives to Encourage Office Return
While many employees remain resistant, some acknowledge potential benefits of office work. Nearly half (46%) admitted they would be more productive in an office setting. However, concerns over commuting costs and workplace distractions remain prominent.
The survey suggests that incentives could encourage employees to return. Sixty-five percent of respondents indicated a pay rise would be the most effective motivator. Flexible work hours were also a key factor for 54 percent of employees, while 37 percent said improved office amenities could make a difference. However, 10 percent stated that no incentive would be enough to persuade them to return.
Amanda Augustine, career expert at TopCV, said, “As more companies push for employees to return to the office, workers are increasingly voicing concerns over the loss of flexibility and its detrimental impact on mental health and work-life balance as outweighing any productivity improvements. While offering enticing incentives may help, workers’ growing need for flexibility and autonomy remains a significant challenge for businesses who refuse to bend.”
