Is WFH here to stay? Just one in four companies expect their staff to work in the office full time in the future

• READ MORE: WFH employees worry they are missing out on promotions 

Only one in four companies expect their staff to be in the office full time in the coming years, research suggests.

A survey of more than 1,000 businesses indicates around one in six believe their employees will mainly work remotely.

The study, by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and technology firm Cisco, found a clear divide between sectors, with those such as finance and legal more likely to expect remote working.

The BBC’s Jane Gratton said: ‘Our data shows that hybrid working is now part of the fabric of the modern workplace. For millions of people, logging in remotely for at least part of the working week is now routine.

‘This flexibility is valued by employers and their teams. Less than 30% of firms expect staff to be working fully in person over the next five years.

Only one in four companies expect their staff to be in the office full time in the coming years, research suggests (Stock photo) 

‘Flexible working makes good business sense. In a tight labour market where employers are competing for skilled workers, hybrid working, and flexible working more generally, has become an important part of staff benefit packages.

‘As well as boosting recruitment and retention, it can help employers unlock new and diverse talent pools.

‘Employers still value regular face-to-face contact with staff however, and our findings show only 8% of businesses expect staff to be completely remote.’

Aine Rogers of Cisco added: ‘We know employees thrive in a hybrid working environment, as it enhances their wellbeing, work-life balance and performance.’

It comes as staff who still work remotely believe they are looked down on by those who have returned to the office and may even miss out on promotions to them, according to McCrindle research.

While 70 per cent of Australian workers feel their bosses recognise and appreciate the effort made to commute, 67 per cent of hybrid workers have a ‘sneaking suspicion’ on-site staff are getting better opportunities.

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