A recent report from Owl Labs suggests hybrid and remote work will remain popular in the coming year, even as some companies push for more in-office days. Managers are broadly positive about remote or hybrid productivity, while many workers cite a lack of flexibility as a key concern. The study highlights interest in “microshifting”—structured but flexible work blocks—and even the idea of using AI avatars in meetings to free up time. Workers are already accustomed to nontraditional hours, with many scheduling personal appointments during the day and taking time for personal matters.
As in-office mandates grow, some employees may push back or look for workarounds, such as coffee badging or carefully timing their presence. This phenomenon, sometimes called “hybrid creep,” reflects a broader blur between work and personal life. Not all trends are negative: remote and hybrid setups have shown comparable, and at times higher, productivity than traditional office-only arrangements. When planning for more rigid in-office requirements, employers should consider these dynamics and the potential for reduced engagement or creativity if boundaries and flexibility aren’t carefully managed.