Despite many companies instituting a return-to-work policy, new data shows that many Americans prefer to work from home. A new nationwide poll by Eagle Hill Consulting shows that 50 percent of U.S. workers say they prefer to have flexibility when it comes to remote and hybrid work. 

The poll examined how the workforce prefers to do their job. Approximately 50 percent of employees said they would consider looking for a new job if their employers reduced remote and hybrid work flexibility. Gen Z workers were among the most adamant about staying remote, with 61 percent saying they would leave their current job if remote and hybrid work was no longer an option. 

According to the survey, 30 percent of workers say their employers have consulted with them on remote and hybrid work flexibility. Additionally, 67 percent of respondents said remote work improves corporate work culture. 

Many workers are concerned about losing their work-life balance, with 48 percent of respondents saying this is their top priority. Meanwhile, 36 percent of respondents said increased costs associated with going to work are their biggest concern. Approximately 41 percent said they are worried about commute time and 36 percent said they are concerned about the stress associated with returning to the office. 

“Employers are wise to tread carefully when making changes to their remote and hybrid work policies,” said Melissa Jezior, president and chief executive officer of Eagle Hill Consulting. "While in-person work has benefits, reducing the flexibility that many workers crave could backfire in terms of employee retention, morale and company culture. It's important for employers to understand that workers do see the value of in-person work, but they view some tasks as better performed remotely, and they don't want mandates." 

Jezior added that the vast majority of workers said they haven't been asked about their preferences regarding remote work, noting gauging worker sentiment is a necessary step employers should take to make informed policy decisions. 

“While employee preferences don't drive all business decisions, not understanding worker views is never a good approach," Jezior concluded.