Return-to-Office Trends, Insights & Tips for 2025

In recent years, return-to-office (RTO) policies have become a focal point for organizations navigating the post-pandemic workplace. 

As businesses redefine their operational models, employees are balancing the demands of in-office work with the flexibility of remote or hybrid arrangements. 

In this article, we’ll explore return-to-office trends and offer strategies for navigating the shifting landscape of workplace expectations. Jump to the following key topics to get started: 

What Is an RTO Policy?

An RTO policy refers to a return-to-office policy, which outlines the expectations, guidelines and procedures for employees returning to the office after a period of partial or fully remote work. 

RTO policies have gained prominence in recent years as employers reevaluate in-office work expectations following the widespread adoption of remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Policies may outline hybrid models, fixed in-office schedules or full-time returns, including the reasoning for the return, logistical considerations and accommodations for employee needs.

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Why Are Companies Requiring Return-to-Office?

Some companies are pushing for employees to return back to the office for various reasons, often tied to strategic goals, operational needs and perceptions of workplace dynamics. 

Here’s a closer look at some of the primary motivations driving RTO mandates:

MyPerfectResume career advice professional Toni Frana explained the following: 

Companies want to ensure employees are working together to solve critical problems as they arise. In addition, company leaders see value in face-to-face time among teams. As a result, there has been a strong push from many organizations to require employees to return to the office.- Toni Frana, Career Professional

Top Companies Requiring Return-to-Office

Several major companies have implemented return-to-office mandates, requiring employees to increase their in-office presence. Below are a few notable examples. 

Amazon 

The tech giant has mandated that corporate employees return to the office five days a week as of Jan. 2, 2025. 

CEO Andy Jassy emphasized the benefits of in-person collaboration and the company's commitment to an office-centric culture. 

JPMorgan Chase 

The largest U.S. bank has announced that starting in March, employees currently on hybrid schedules will be required to return to the office five days a week. 

This policy shift aligns with CEO Jamie Dimon's longstanding advocacy for in-person work to enhance productivity and collaboration.

Google 

Google has enforced a hybrid work policy requiring employees to be in the office at least three days a week. The company believes that this hybrid model supports productivity and innovation.

Disney 

Disney has required employees to return to the office four days a week, emphasizing the importance of in-person collaboration and creativity in their work environment.

Apple 

Apple has implemented hybrid work policies requiring employees to work in the office at least three days a week, typically Tuesdays, Thursdays and a third day selected by team leaders. 

This hybrid approach aims to balance the benefits of in-person collaboration with the flexibility of remote work.

AT&T

The telecommunications company has required all office employees to work on-site five days a week starting in January 2025. 

This move follows a period during which AT&T accommodated hybrid schedules, reflecting a shift toward prioritizing in-person collaboration and business outcomes.

Employee Response to Return-to-Office Mandates

While companies may have strong reasons for enforcing RTO policies, many are facing return-to-office backlash from employees who value the flexibility of remote or hybrid work. 

A recent survey on RTO policies conducted by MyPerfectResume in February 2024 with over 4,200 U.S. respondents found that workers have concerns about employer motives: 

Remote vs. In-Person Work

In addition to the return-to-office statistics reported above, the MyPerfectResume survey found that very few respondents reported a preference for full-time on-site work: 

As is the case with most workplace trends, employee reactions to recent RTO policies are varied and reflect a broad spectrum of underlying opinions and preferences. 

However, there are several frequently discussed concerns regarding full-time on-site work, including the following:

Navigating RTO Policies as a Job Seeker

As RTO policies become increasingly prominent in the workplace, job seekers must evaluate and navigate these requirements when searching for new opportunities. 

Research RTO policies before applying 

Review the company’s website, job postings or public statements to determine its RTO stance and whether it offers flexible arrangements for certain roles or circumstances.

The next step is to decide whether you prefer fully remote, hybrid or in-office work, and focus on roles that align with your priorities and career goals.

Consider whether or not you are open to compromises, such as relocating closer to the office or working on-site for specific projects.

Tailor your job application materials

It is important to customize your resume and cover letter to reflect the skills, qualifications and experiences that align with the role's requirements and location expectations. 

If you are applying for a remote or hybrid role, tailoring your resume and cover letter by highlighting any remote or hybrid experience is important because employers are looking for candidates who are competent with technology, who are great problem-solvers, and also solid communicators. These are some of the key skills remote and hybrid workers need to be successful, and employers want to know you will be able to handle this type of work arrangement on day one.
- Toni Frana, Career Professional

Ask questions during your interview

During your job interview, you can ask specific questions about the company’s RTO policy, such as required days in the office, flexibility, and whether remote work is an option.

Inquire about their future vision for work arrangements to assess alignment with your preferences. We also recommend using our interview prep tools to get ready. 

Predicted RTO Trends for 2025

RTO policies and procedures continue to evolve, reflecting the dynamic interplay between organizational objectives and employee perspectives. Explore key return-to-office trends below. 

Increased implementation of RTO mandates

The recent increase in RTO mandates reflects a growing trend among companies prioritizing face-to-face interactions, enhanced teamwork and improved oversight. 

According to recent MyPerfectResume survey data, 40% of respondents reported that their employers want to increase office attendance.

Of those respondents, 28% reported that their employer threatened to terminate employment for workers who do not comply with updated policies. 

Employee resistance to strict RTO policies

However, these mandates are sparking debates about employee preferences for flexibility, work-life balance and the future of hybrid work.

Although some companies are offering perks to boost return-to-office morale, MyPerfectResume survey data indicated that for some employees, no perk would justify RTO mandates: 

Shift toward hybrid work models

As businesses refine their operational models, balancing organizational goals with employee satisfaction will be key to successful RTO strategies.

Many organizations are embracing structured hybrid work models, allowing employees to split their time between remote and in-office work. 

This allows for increased productivity and engagement while addressing employee demand for autonomy and work-life balance. 

Key Takeaways