Gen Z Prefers Office Work Over Remote Jobs Despite Being Digital Natives

Gen Z's Preference for Office Work

As companies like JPMorgan Chase, Amazon, and Starbucks implement return-to-office policies, it appears that Gen Z may be one of their strongest supporters. This generation of young workers is combating feelings of isolation and seeking career growth, which makes them the least likely to prefer full-time remote work, according to a recent survey. However, this does not mean they are entirely against working from home—like their millennial colleagues, they tend to favor a hybrid work model above all else.

Gen Z and Jamie Dimon, the CEO of JPMorgan Chase, may not have much in common, but they both share a dislike for fully-remote work. According to a Gallup survey, less than a quarter of Gen Z workers, specifically 23%, prefer working from home five days a week. This is significantly lower compared to 35% of millennials, Gen Xers, and boomers who would prefer to work remotely every day. This suggests that the youngest members of the workforce are more eager to return to the office environment.

The Appeal of Hybrid Work

Dimon’s push for returning to the office aligns with the preferences of many Gen Z workers. In the spring, he required all employees to return to the office daily, citing reasons such as increased efficiency and creativity. He even stated, “You can’t learn working from your basement,” and expressed hope that employees would be happier over time. However, full return-to-office policies do not have widespread support. Even though Gen Z isn’t a fan of remote work, they also don’t enjoy being in the office every single day. Only 6% of Gen Z workers would prefer to work in-person every day of the week.

This sentiment is not exclusive to Gen Z. The most senior members of the workforce also aren't big fans of full-time office work. According to the Gallup survey, only one in 10 boomers supports being in the office every day, which is the highest proportion among any generation. Other age groups follow closely: 9% of Gen X and 4% of millennials approve of full RTO.

The Popularity of Hybrid Work

Hybrid work remains the most popular option across all age groups, with over 50% approval. Many workers still prefer the flexibility of working from home on certain days, such as Mondays and Fridays, while being present in the office on others. This model offers a balance between the benefits of remote work and the advantages of in-person interactions.

Why Gen Z Isn’t a Fan of Remote Work

Gen Z's preference for in-office work might come as a surprise, considering they grew up in an era dominated by screens. They spent a significant amount of time watching TV and using computers during their childhood. As young professionals, they now spend an average of seven hours a day on their phones. When working from home, they often find themselves staring at more screens. According to a survey by Tubi, over eight in 10 Gen Z workers admit to streaming shows and movies while working from home. This behavior could be linked to feelings of loneliness, as Gen Z is the loneliest generation, with young workers being almost twice as likely as Gen Z and nearly three times as likely as boomers to report feeling lonely.

The Benefits of Office Interaction

Building connections in the office can contribute to future career success. Companies like JPMorgan Chase are not alone in their push for a return to the office. Amazon, Starbucks, and Google have also reduced the flexibility of their work schedules in recent months. Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol emphasized that working together fosters better idea-sharing, creative problem-solving, and faster progress.

In addition to these benefits, in-person interactions can lead to mentorship opportunities and career advancement. A 2023 Gallup survey found that employees with mentors are twice as likely to feel they have had opportunities to learn and grow at work. Moreover, showing up to the office can result in faster internal career progression. According to a KPMG survey of 400 U.S.-based CEOs, over 80% of chief executives have stated that employees who come into the office will be prioritized for assignments, raises, or promotions.

Career Opportunities in the Office

With companies increasingly relying on AI and reducing their workforce, remote workers may be at a disadvantage. At a time when many Gen Z college graduates struggle to find jobs, those with established roles may see the benefits of working in the office as a worthwhile trade-off for long-term career growth.