Companies are struggling to balance in-person and remote work, with some claiming a combination of both is harder than either, The New York Times reported Nov. 16.
Many mandatory return to work plans became optional after the delta variant surge, meaning more workers adopted a flexible, hybrid routine. But the hybrid option is proving difficult for some employers to manage.
"Hybrid is most definitely tougher than completely in person or completely remote," said Brett Hautop, head of workplace at LinkedIn. "It takes a lot more forethought."
The demographic of people more likely to use hybrid work options is a concern to some. Studies have shown that women are more likely than men to prefer the option long-term. But men who work from home with children received promotions at higher rates than women, studies have found.
"Women are more likely to take advantage of that work-from-home flexibility. Which means they, in turn, are going to be less in the room where it happens, " said Anna Binder, head of people for software company Asana.
Companies are still trying to decide the best policies for work going forward, but only time will tell which style will reign supreme.