Source: Fortune
Summary
Stanford professor Nicholas Bloom, a remote work researcher, says many companies will never fully return to in-office work due to the flexibility offered by remote work. Despite some companies’ attempts to mandate return-to-office policies, Bloom believes the benefits of remote work, such as avoiding commuting during extreme weather or high gas prices, will prevail. A recent study by the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis found that hybrid work in the US has stabilized, with nearly 22% of workers still working from home at least partly in 2025.
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The numbers tell one story.
Companies like JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs are allowing employees to request remote work on match days during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Nicholas Bloom notes that remote work is a way to maintain productivity in harsh conditions, such as severe weather and surging fuel prices. He also believes new technology, like life-size video conferencing displays, will make virtual meetings more effective. “When you can see somebody’s full body, you know they are paying attention,” Bloom said.
This is the future of work, and it’s not just about employee perks.
Author: Evan Null
