The State of Remote Work: 5 Trends to Know for 2023

Rhea-AI Summary

Research from Robert Half reveals that remote jobs are here to stay, with 87% of workers considering job changes interested in hybrid or fully remote roles. In January 2023, 28% of new job postings were remote, equal to the previous year. Work flexibility enhances job satisfaction, with 46% of workers reporting increased happiness despite longer hours. Notably, 32% are willing to accept pay cuts averaging 18% for full remote work. However, 65% value in-person relationships with colleagues, while 82% of managers believe all workers have equal career advancement opportunities. The surveys included over 4,600 U.S. workers and managers.

Positive

• 87% of workers considering job changes interested in hybrid or remote positions.
• 28% of new job postings in January 2023 were remote, indicating stable demand.
• 77% of professionals report higher job satisfaction from flexible work arrangements.
• 32% of workers willing to accept a salary reduction averaging 18% for full remote work.
• 82% of managers believe remote and in-office employees have equal advancement opportunities.

Negative

• 42% of remote workers are concerned about visibility for promotions.
• Only 49% feel comfortable collaborating in person compared to 31% virtually.

MENLO PARK, Calif., Feb. 21, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The sudden shift to remote and hybrid work spurred significant change for employers, employees and job seekers. But after several years of adjusting, where do they stand when it comes to working in the office versus anywhere? New research from talent solutions and business consulting firm Robert Half reveals five remote work trends taking shape for 2023. View infographics of the research highlights.

1. Remote jobs are here to stay. Professionals remain confident in the job market, and having greater flexibility to choose where and when to work is a top motivator for making a move. Nearly 9 in 10 workers considering a job change (87%) are interested in hybrid or fully remote positions. And they have options: 28% of all new job postings in January 2023 were advertised as remote, on par with 29% a year ago.* View Robert Half's Demand for Skilled Talent report for insight on roles with the greatest percentage of remote opportunities.
2. Work flexibility can lead to greater happiness. More than three-quarters of professionals (77%) who can work where and when they are most productive are putting in more hours now than three years ago. Despite longer workdays, 46% report higher job satisfaction.
3. Some would sacrifice salary for more remote time. Nearly one-third of workers (32%) who go into the office at least one day a week are willing to take a pay cut for the ability to do their job remotely all the time. When asked by how much, the average response was 18%. Technology professionals (47%), 18- to 25-year-olds (42%) and working parents (41%) are most likely to accept a salary reduction to be fully remote.
4. Being in the office has benefits. Nearly two-thirds of professionals (65%) said they have more effective relationships with colleagues they've met face-to-face versus those they have not. And more workers are comfortable collaborating in person (49%) than virtually (31%). Read about the benefits of working "in person with a purpose" in Robert Half's Your Future Is Flexible report.
5. Employees have career opportunities, wherever they are. Most managers (82%) who oversee hybrid teams feel in-office and remote employees have the same opportunities for career advancement. Yet, 42% of remote workers are concerned about being visible for project opportunities and promotions. Managers said the best ways for off-site employees to position themselves for growth are:
1. Having regular career pathing conversations
2. Expressing interest in professional development opportunities
3. Volunteering to lead or contribute to projects

"Even though we've seen more people return to the office as of late, companies shouldn't pull back on remote work policies," said Paul McDonald, senior executive director of Robert Half. "Flexibility and choice are clearly non-negotiables for many professionals, and employers will lose good staff if they limit remote options without a valid reason."

Lynne Smith, Robert Half senior vice president of global human resources, added, "Supporting a hybrid workforce is not easy. It requires extensive planning, paying attention to employee and business needs, and pivoting to get right. But there are huge benefits of embracing a people-first, flexible work philosophy, including a more engaged and productive team."

About the Research

The online surveys were developed by Robert Half and conducted by independent research firms. They include responses from more than 2,500 workers 18 years of age or older (conducted Oct. 17 to Nov. 7, 2022) and 2,175 managers with hiring responsibilities (conducted Oct. 20 to Nov. 3, 2022) at companies with 20 or more employees in the U.S.

*Robert Half calculations are based on job postings provided by TalentNeuron™.

About Robert Half

Robert Half (NYSE: RHI) is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions and business consulting firm that connects people with meaningful work and provides companies with the talent and subject matter expertise they need to confidently compete and grow. Visit roberthalf.com and download the company's award-winning mobile app.

 

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SOURCE Robert Half

FAQ

What are the remote work trends for 2023 according to Robert Half?

Key trends include increased interest in remote jobs, with 87% of job seekers preferring remote opportunities.

What percentage of new job postings in January 2023 were remote?

28% of new job postings in January 2023 were advertised as remote.

How do remote work options affect job satisfaction?

77% of professionals report greater job satisfaction due to flexible work options.

Are employees willing to take a pay cut for remote work?

Yes, 32% of employees would accept an average pay cut of 18% for full remote work.

What concerns do remote workers have regarding career advancement?

42% of remote workers worry about visibility for project opportunities and promotions.