People

Why millions of workers who went remote during the pandemic don’t want to return to the office

A recession might also make companies reconsider if the office is truly necessary

Many bosses are pushing for a return to the office, citing better teamwork, productivity and innovation
Many bosses are pushing for a return to the office, citing better teamwork, productivity and innovation Photo: Jason Alden/Getty Images

Erin Li, a 29-year-old working for an advertising firm in Los Angeles, is looking for a new job that allows full-time remote work.

Li is worried that her current employer will require her to work from the office again in the autumn. Her company has moved its office location farther from her home, and she would have to spend more than two hours commuting every day.

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