Remote workers are happier, more cooperative than office-bound colleagues: Study
A recent study by Great Place to Work has revealed that return-to-office (RTO) mandates are negatively impacting both employee retention and productivity. The survey, conducted in July 2023, involved over 4,400 participants aged 18 and above. Interestingly, the findings indicated that remote workers were 27% more likely to look forward to their jobs compared to their office-bound counterparts.
Remote work promotes healthier work environment
The survey's demographic was diverse, with 51% female, 49% male, and less than 1% identifying as non-binary or other genders. The participants' roles varied from individual contributors (50%), frontline managers (25%), mid-level managers (20%), to executives (5%). A significant majority of the participants were full-time workers. The study also found that remote workers reported a healthier work environment, with 23% more likely to describe their workplace as "psychologically and emotionally healthy."
It boosts cooperation, reduces office politics
The survey further revealed that remote workers were 19% more likely to report high levels of cooperation. They were also 18% more likely to avoid office politics and backstabbing. Despite the majority of respondents being on-site workers (65%), Great Place to Work maintains that these findings are statistically significant due to the large sample size.
Reduced unconscious bias, improved inclusivity
The report also highlighted that employees of color experienced less unconscious bias and code switching when working remotely. However, it emphasized that companies do not necessarily need to fully embrace remote work for inclusivity but should strive to meet the needs of all employees regardless of their work location. The report underscored the importance of understanding employees' views on remote work and whether it fits specific needs within the company.
RTO policies negatively impact employee satisfaction, company value
A separate survey conducted earlier this year by University of Pittsburgh researchers on some S&P 500 companies found that RTO policies hurt employee satisfaction and failed to boost company value. Great Place to Work's report also warned that RTO mandates could harm employee retention. It suggested that employees who have a say in their work location are more likely to stay with their company long-term.
Employee choice in work location boosts retention
The report found that employees who can choose between in-person, remote, or hybrid work are three times more likely to want to stay at their company. Those not facing RTO mandates are 14 times less likely to quit. This aligns with previous surveys indicating RTO mandates have led to higher rates of employees leaving companies. A recent study reported that mandates requiring workers to return to office led to a higher rate of senior-level employees leaving Apple, Microsoft, and SpaceX.
