Recent research indicates that employees hesitant to return to the office may jeopardise their career growth. The ongoing discourse concerning remote work has prompted discussions about the potential for being passed over for promotions if one is not physically present in the workplace.
A survey conducted by recruitment agency Robert Half found that 75% of employers believe attendance in the office enhances an employee’s likelihood of receiving a pay rise or promotion. Conversely, only 13% of those surveyed claimed they would not consider in-office presence when evaluating performance for rewards.
Significantly, 45% of workers indicated they would increase their office attendance if it were a requirement for advancing their careers. Andrew Brushfield, a director at Robert Half, pointed out that with employers placing a growing emphasis on physical presence, employees who favour remote working might find themselves at a disadvantage when it comes to career progress. The “out-of-sight, out-of-mind” phenomenon highlights the importance of visibility in fostering collaboration and demonstrating commitment—factors that significantly influence promotion decisions.
While remote work presents challenges, some employees remain steadfast in their preferences, with 17% indicating they would still choose working from home despite the risk of missing out on promotional opportunities. Younger generations, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, showed a greater willingness to return to the office in pursuit of career advancement compared to Gen X and Baby Boomers, who were less inclined to adjust their office schedules.
Brushfield emphasised the delicate balance businesses must strike between encouraging office attendance and ensuring employee satisfaction and retention. Clear communication regarding the importance of being present in the workplace is essential to ensure all employees have equal access to promotional opportunities.
As highlighted by recent statistics, millions of Australians engage in remote work, with 53% working from home at least part-time, and 69% of employers offering a hybrid working model. Amidst this backdrop, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has advocated for the right to flexible working arrangements, especially following comments from Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, who argued for full-time office presence among public servants.
In summary, while remote work carries its own set of advantages, employees should be aware of the potential implications on their career trajectory if they remain reluctant to return to the office, as employers increasingly associate in-person attendance with professional advancement opportunities.