A study from CV-Library has established that remote working is now the least popular work set-up among UK jobseekers. The poll highlights a notable shift in working preferences, with just 16 per cent of respondents saying they prefer to work remotely, compared to 22 per cent who favour being entirely office-based, whilst an overwhelming 40 per cent prioritise hybrid working structures.
The trend reflects a continued appetite for healthy living and balance, as hybrid working, now typically three days in the office, is now the preferred choice for all generations. This aligns with not only businesses’ return to work mandate, but candidates’ top priorities when job hunting, citing better work-life balance (40 per cent) and location (19 per cent) among their top five priorities.
Critically, more than half of workers (58 per cent) believe an in-office presence supports career progression, enabling them to learn from colleagues and improving prospects for promotion.
Generational divide:
- Gen Z (18–28): Overall, the most positive about office life, two-thirds (66 per cent) state being in the office aids career growth, whilst supporting mental health, development and learning from peers.
- Millennials (29–44): More balanced, with29 per cent preferring hybrid compared to 26 per cent opting for a full office
- Gen X (45–60): Workers of this generation lead the way on hybrid preferences (44 per cent), with 55 per cent saying being in the office facilitates progression. Just 14 per cent want to be fully remote.
“Across generations, employees are increasingly reluctant to embrace fully remote working, concerned that in doing so it is hindering their career growth,” comments Hannah Cornish, Recruitment Business Partner, CV-Library. “Loneliness, weakened working relationships, limited mentorship, and reduced collaboration are to blame. It’s therefore no surprise that hybrid work is the preferred model for jobseekers. But being in the office full time is growing in popularity, as an in-office presence supports career progression and exposure to learn and develop – key to maintaining a happy, healthy, positive mindset.”
This research is part of a wider report titled ‘Candidate Behaviour Barometer 2025’ which can be found here: ‘What’s driving today’s job seekers?’.
