Back to the Office in 2025? The “In-Person Premium” Takes Hold

Remember working from home?  For many, those days may be numbered. As we enter 2025, a noticeable shift back to the office is underway, with employers increasingly emphasising the benefits of face-to-face interaction.

Back to work in 2025

James Reed, CEO of the Reed Group, highlights the importance of “proper face time,” suggesting that in-person collaboration encourages stronger relationships and boosts team performance. 

His view is backed by research indicating that a whopping 68% of companies are actively encouraging employees to return to the workplace, driven in part by concerns about maintaining productivity levels.

The “In-Person Premium” Emerges

This shift in workplace dynamics has led to what some are calling the “in-person premium.”  As the job market cools and competition for roles intensifies, being physically present in the office is becoming a valuable asset.  Reed points to the 19% surge in job applications in 2024 as evidence of a talent-rich landscape, where standing out from the crowd is more important than ever.

What This Means for Employees and HR

For employees, this means carefully weighing the pros and cons of remote work versus office life. While some may resist giving up the flexibility of WFH, the potential career benefits of being present and visible in the workplace cannot be ignored.

HR professionals face the challenge of striking a balance between employee preferences and company needs.  This includes:

• Developing clear communication strategies: Clearly articulating the company’s stance on return-to-office policies and the rationale behind them is essential.
• Creating a welcoming and productive workplace: As employees transition back to the office, encouraging a positive and engaging environment will be key to a smooth transition.
• Providing flexibility where possible: Offering hybrid work models or flexible scheduling options can help address employee concerns and attract top talent.

The future of work is evolving, and the “in-person premium” is just one piece of the puzzle. 

As we move forward, both employers and employees will need to adapt to the changing workplace landscape to thrive in the years to come.

Need help navigating these evolving workplace dynamics?  Call Tick HR Solutions today for expert guidance and support.

Call us today. 07745 535 635