Working from home remains an overwhelmingly popular option for people around the world. A new study reveals that the vast majority (83%) say they feel more productive in hybrid/remote environments than in the office or on-site.
A Zoom survey focused on knowledge workers seemingly confirmed that many companies support the post-Covid remote working trend will continue: 50% of leaders say they have introduced more flexible working styles in the past two years and 82% plan to continue this in the future.
And despite the distance, hybrid workers even report feeling more connected to their teams and managers: 82% say they feel a better bond, compared to 72% of in-person workers.
Technology needs an update
Nearly all IT leaders who responded confirm that they use AI in their organizations (94%) and 84% of them say that this has had a positive impact on productivity.
However, nearly two-thirds (64%) of workers said generative AI in particular was helping them do their jobs, meaning a significant portion of the workforce is still not fully convinced by the technology.
However, most respondents agreed that their organization's remote working technology and tools need improvement, with 75% finding their current setup inadequate.
Zoom’s findings aren’t particularly surprising, as research has consistently shown that workers are happier and more productive when given the opportunity to work remotely.
Earlier this month, a Report on workplace culture in the United States found that workers are 60% less likely to quit, 27% more likely to enjoy their jobs, and 67% more likely to put in more effort if they can work from home.
Further research into workspaces revealed that many workplaces need to invest in their tools and technology, and nearly two-thirds of office spaces are no longer optimized for remote work.