In the last four years, the work culture has changed in many parts of the world, and the home office has become an essential part of everyday work. However, more and more companies are bringing back fully office work, both internationally and in Hungary.
Among the employees, this change caused mixed feelings. According to some, the option of a home office has many advantages, such as more flexible working hours, easier maintenance of work-life balance, and avoiding traffic problems. However, others feel that the disadvantages of working remotely include social isolation, lack of team building and difficulty in effective communication.
Employer aspiration: return to office work
International trends show that more and more companies are returning to traditional office work. In industries where this is possible, managers feel that they can communicate more effectively and creatively collaborate more easily in the office environment. In addition, more and more companies in the capitals are beginning to withdraw the home office option and make it mandatory for employees to be in the office.
A similar change can be seen in Hungary. Some domestic companies feel that office work is essential for more efficient work, and that team-building and creative activities can be carried out more easily in a shared space.
The employee demand is unchanged: hybrid working
However, the employees are not happy about this change, and many have expressed their need to offer them hybrid work options in the future. According to domestic and international surveys, for a significant part of the labor market, the possibility of hybrid work has become a key factor when choosing a job.
Our followers also confirm this trend: 78% of those interviewed prefer the hybrid working model, and 16% remote work, while only 6% would choose to work entirely in the office. This trend is also valid among our interviewed engineering followers: 80% would choose hybrid work if possible, 12% remote work, and only 8% would like to go to work every day.
Retaining employees: with flexibility
Thus, companies that return to office-only work can count on increasing employee dissatisfaction. Proponents of hybrid working often feel that returning to the office will take away the flexibility they enjoyed working from home. For this reason, many employees are looking for new job opportunities.
Companies must keep in mind that employee loyalty and satisfaction are key factors for successful operations. Companies that offer the option of hybrid working can be more attractive and retain their current employees more easily. Companies that offer flexible working options are likely to be more competitive in the labor market.
What the future will bring?
With all this in mind, companies need to take a balanced approach. It is important that the way of working is optimal for both employees and companies, and that changes in the developing work culture are taken into account.
In the year 2024, it will be worthwhile to monitor the development of the processes, as it may have a significant impact on the daily work and the labor market for employees and companies as well.