A new global survey from office furniture company Steelcase has found that 85% of remote workers want to come back into the office.
The survey of 32,000 professionals looked at the experiences of remote working professionals in Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Mexico, Spain, the U.S. and the U.K.
According to sociologist Tracy Brower, a principal in Steelcase’s research and consulting division, workers have a great appreciation for the environment in which they do their work and feel that it has a direct impact on their success.
The research found that only half of remote workers work from a desk, while 15% work from their dining table, 9% work from bed, 7% at a kitchen counter and 5% use outdoor furniture.
Additionally, the data found that the majority of workers embrace a hybrid work schedule, allowing them to come into the office part of the work week.
Employees are especially eager to return to the office for the mental health benefits. However, this will be contingent upon workspaces enforcing health and safety rules, such as required face masks, signage reminding occupants to stay distanced and increasing sanitation practices.
“Leaders need to create a great experience in the office, as well as a great experience for people working from home—or risk a decline in their productivity and engagement,” said Brower.
