Employees all around the world are pushing for continued access to remote-work environments.
Key Details
- A growing number of employees would rather quit their jobs than return to the office full-time—a trend that has a global foothold.
- Around 73% of surveyed London employees told Bloomberg that they would rather quit their job than return to full-time, in-person work. Some would return—in exchange for significant pay increases.
- London employers seem to be adjusting to employee desires as a growing number of companies are leasing out smaller office spaces.
- In France, the remote work debate revolves around a larger discussion focused on raising the national retirement age. A growing number of citizens are protesting the potential raise.
- French government spokesman Oliver Veran may be trying to shift the national conversation to the less-controversial discussion about remote work to avoid further inflaming protests.
- Meanwhile in New York, Mayor Eric Adams is reconsidering his decision to compel city workers back to the office five days a week.
Why it’s news
Remote work remains a priority for many workers worldwide, and more employers appear to be giving in to employee demands. A Bloomberg survey found that the majority of London employees would rather find a new job than return to the office. Four out of 10 of those same employees say that they would need at least a 16% raise to consider returning to the office.
London companies are responding by downsizing their office spaces. Around 25% of companies are relocating to smaller office spaces, and about 18% are investing in flexible workspaces, Bloomberg reports. Fewer businesses looking for large office spaces are increasing vacancy rates in London.
Office occupancy rates are higher than during the pandemic, but continuing low numbers could indicate that flexible work options are now permanent.
Even employers that had previously tried to force employees back to the office are beginning to reconsider that decision. Adams is rethinking remote work for city employees as several divisions struggle to maintain adequate staffing. Turnover remains high as city employees leave for higher-paying jobs or jobs with greater flexibility.
Adams came out against remote work strongly last year. In June, he ordered city workers back to the office full-time and tried to convince CEOs of major financial companies to compel their workers to return as well.
Though Adams hasn’t said whether or not New York City employees can work from home, remote options aren’t out of the question. However, the city will continue conducting employee surveys before making a decision.
