Employees who are reluctant to return to the office may be putting their next promotion at risk, as the majority of Australian employers agree that in-office attendance significantly increases their employees’ chances of advancement, new independent research by specialised recruiter Robert Half finds.
At a time when 93% of businesses have set an in-office attendance mandate for 2025 and are requiring employees to be in the office more often, the research reveals a significant benefit for employees who comply.
When asked if a physical presence in the office significantly impacts an employee’s likelihood of promotion, 74% of employers agreed. Only 13% disagreed that it would have a significant impact.
Australian employers are not alone in holding this view. Robert Half research across Europe reveals employers in the United Kingdom (68%) Germany (69%), the Netherlands (68%) and France (62%) also agree a physical presence in the office can influence promotional opportunities.
“As employers increasingly value staff being physically present in the office, employees seeking continued remote work may face career progression challenges,” says Andrew Brushfield, Director at Robert Half. “The ‘out-of-sight, out-of-mind’ effect is real. In-office presence increases visibility, fosters collaboration, and signals dedication and commitment, all factors employers consider for promotions.”
Employees put promotions ahead of remote work perks
The research reveals employees are prepared to increase their in-office attendance rather than risk being overlooked for a promotion. Almost half (45%) of employees say they would increase their time in the office if their employer outlined it as a requirement or expectation for a higher role.
However, remote work arrangements were cited as sacrosanct for many employees who would choose to work from home over a promotion (17%) or would look for a new job that may not have the same in-office requirements (18%).
The remaining 20% of employees say they already attend the office full time.
While all generations acknowledge the potential promotional advantages of in-office work, our research found the younger generations of Gen Z (52%) and Millennials (48%) are more willing to increase their office attendance to be favoured for promotion compared to Gen X (43%) and Baby Boomers (37%).
“Recognising the connection between visibility and promotions, businesses face a complex balancing act between enforcing in-office attendance and maintaining employee satisfaction and retention. Transparent communication explaining the value of in-office presence is key to ensuring equitable opportunities for all employees,” concludes Brushfield.
