As businesses look ahead to 2025, one thing is clear: the hybrid work model is here to stay, but it’s evolving. According to Metrigy’s latest research study, Employee Engagement Optimization 2025, companies are adjusting their strategies to strike the right balance between in-office and remote work. Here’s a closer look at the key findings from the report and what they mean for the future of work.
The Return to the Office: A Shift Toward Hybrid
While remote work became the norm for many during the pandemic, companies are now encouraging, or even requiring, knowledge workers to return to the office. On average, workers are expected to be in the office three days per week. The shift back is largely driven by the need for more in-person collaboration, as businesses seek to foster internal teamwork, creativity, and relationship-building that is often harder to achieve remotely.
However, this return isn’t as rigid as it may first appear. Many companies are opting for flexible hybrid models where employees can split their time between the office and home. In fact, Metrigy’s research reveals that more than half of businesses plan to revise their work location policies in 2025. Interestingly, the changes are split evenly between those leaning towards more in-office requirements and those embracing increased remote work options. This suggests that companies are still figuring out the optimal mix that will best serve both organizational needs and employee preferences.
Employee Well-Being Drives Remote Work Preferences
As companies navigate the hybrid landscape, employee happiness and quality of life are emerging as strong drivers of remote work preferences. Workers value the flexibility to balance personal and professional commitments, and remote work provides a level of freedom that is hard to match in the office. In fact, many employees report that the ability to work from home significantly improves their work-life balance, leading to higher satisfaction and engagement levels.
However, the trade-off isn’t without challenges. While remote work supports personal well-being, it also presents its own set of hurdles—primarily around maintaining security. According to the Metrigy study, security remains the most significant challenge for businesses supporting remote work. Ensuring secure access to company networks and data while employees work from diverse locations requires robust cybersecurity strategies, which are top of mind for IT leaders.
A Variety of Devices for Hybrid Work
To support both in-office and remote workers, companies are provisioning a wide range of devices to meet the demands of a hybrid workforce. From laptops and mobile devices to desktop setups and collaboration tools, businesses are investing in technology that enables employees to be productive no matter where they are working from.
This diversity of devices is essential in ensuring that employees have the tools they need to collaborate effectively, whether in-person or remotely. However, with the increase in device variety comes the need for ongoing IT support and infrastructure to ensure smooth operations across different platforms.
Financial Support for Remote Workers: The Stipend Trend
Another interesting finding from Metrigy’s research is the rise of stipends for remote workers. Nearly half of the companies surveyed provide some form of financial support to employees working from home. This stipend varies widely in terms of amount and frequency, with some companies offering monthly payments, while others provide lump sum amounts for purchasing equipment or covering home office expenses.
This trend reflects the understanding that remote work comes with its own set of costs—whether it’s for setting up a home office, paying for internet access, or managing additional utilities. Offering stipends not only helps alleviate these costs but also sends a signal that the company is invested in the employee’s success, regardless of where they work from.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Hybrid Work?
As we look toward 2025 and beyond, the hybrid work model will likely continue to evolve. The challenge for businesses will be finding the right balance between in-office and remote work that supports both internal collaboration and employee well-being. While some companies will push for more in-office presence, others will double down on remote-first policies, recognizing the importance of flexibility in attracting and retaining talent.
To navigate this complex landscape, companies will need to continuously assess their policies, listen to employee feedback, and invest in the right technology and security solutions. The goal will be to create a work environment that fosters engagement, supports collaboration, and prioritizes the needs of a diverse and evolving workforce.
As Metrigy’s study shows, hybrid work strategies are not one-size-fits-all. But with thoughtful planning and a focus on both organizational goals and employee satisfaction, businesses can build a hybrid model that works for everyone.
Key Takeaways
- Most companies now require knowledge workers to return to the office at least three days per week.
- Over half of organizations plan to adjust their work location policies in 2025, with an even split between more in-office and more remote work.
- Internal collaboration is the primary driver for returning to the office, while employee quality of life and happiness support remote work preferences.
- Security remains the biggest challenge for remote work, with companies investing in technology to support a wide variety of devices.
- Nearly half of organizations provide stipends to remote workers to offset home office costs, with amounts and frequency varying across businesses.
As hybrid work continues to evolve, staying ahead of these trends will be key to optimizing employee engagement and ensuring long-term success in the workplace.
