FTI Consulting Survey: 70% of Remote and Hybrid Workers Would Leave Job Over Return-to-Office Rule

Core Insights - A significant majority (70%) of U.S. workers in remote or hybrid roles are likely to seek alternative employment if required to return to the office full time at their current salary [1][4][6] - The survey indicates that a third of office workers are excited about returning to the office, citing increased productivity and collaboration as key factors [3][4] - The current work arrangement significantly influences employee attitudes towards return-to-office (RTO) mandates, with remote workers showing the highest likelihood of seeking alternative employment [6][7] Employee Sentiment on RTO - Among fully remote workers, 74% would seek alternative employment if forced to return to the office full time, while 62% of hybrid workers would do the same [6] - Only 12% of fully remote workers are unwilling to come into the office at all, with 38% expressing excitement about returning [6] - 88% of remote workers are open to working in the office for part of the week, with preferences varying on the number of days [6] Factors Influencing RTO Acceptance - The industry plays a crucial role in shaping employee attitudes towards RTO, with 94% of architecture/engineering workers excited about returning, compared to only 51% in tech and telecom [5][6] - Employees in financial services (70%), retail (69%), and healthcare (67%) appreciate the camaraderie associated with office work [6] - Mid-sized company employees (2,500-10,000 employees) are most likely (46%) to seek alternative employment if required to return to the office full time, while large company employees (over 10,000 employees) are least likely (34%) [7] Demographic Insights - Geographically, employees in the Northeast and South (45% each) are more likely to seek alternative employment compared to those in the West (29%) [10] - Younger generations, particularly millennials and Gen Z, show a higher likelihood (45% each) of seeking alternative employment compared to baby boomers (31%) [10] - Workers with children under 18 are more excited about returning to the office (41%) than those without children (31%) [10]