Over two-thirds of UK workers would consider returning to the office if employers covered the commute

New research shows that 68% of British office workers said they would be likely to consider working from the office full-time again if their commute was fully paid for.

Close to 6 in 10 (59%) office workers would welcome a four-day week, ranking it the top incentive that would tempt them back to the office

The survey by Emburse and YouGov also revealed that Wednesday is the most popular day to work from the office if given the choice (66%).

Over two-thirds of UK office workers (68%) said that they would be likely to consider going into the office full time if transport costs to the office were fully covered.

More than a quarter (27%) wouldn’t consider coming back into the office full time, even if costs were covered.

Other incentives to work back in the office included more paid holidays (51%), employer-paid lunch (30%) and paid childcare on workdays (14%).

Almost a quarter (24%) of all surveyed said they be worried their boss would overlook their career development if they weren’t in the office.

Kenny Eon, SVP EMEA at Emburse, said: “The impacts of COVID and the Great Resignation mean that companies need to be more employee-centric in their approach, and humanising the workplace has never been more important.

“Part of this means ensuring team members get the best possible work environment.

“Whilst working remotely is certainly convenient for employees, there are clear benefits of having in-person interactions, as well as the cultural importance of bringing teams together.

“Data clearly shows that they are more productive than audio or video meetings, so there needs to be a balance between convenience and productivity. A relatively small investment from employers could have a significant impact in driving more in-office collaboration.

“Given the sharp increase in the cost of living, businesses should consider how they can support staff by reducing the financial burden of attending the office in-person.

“Reimbursing travel and lunches can certainly help do this.”