Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world, the 9-to-5 workday was the standard for most office workers. However, following the series of COVID-19 waves, many professionals shifted to remote and hybrid work setups. Over the past year, major companies worldwide have been encouraging a return to office work. Despite ongoing adjustments to this mandate, recent data shows that office hours have informally shortened by two hours.
According to traffic analysis firm INRIX Inc, the traditional 9-to-5 schedule has largely evolved into a 10-to-4 routine. Their 2023 Global Traffic Scorecard reveals that fewer professionals are commuting during the morning, leading to a shift in traffic patterns. Now, traffic congestion tends to peak during the middle of the day rather than the traditional rush hours of morning and evening.
Bob Pishue, a transportation analyst and author of the INRIX report, told CNBC, "We’re seeing less activity in the morning and evening but much more around noon."
The report also emphasised the increasing importance of work-life balance for professionals globally. It cited David Satterwhite, CEO of Chronus, who noted that many employees now value the flexibility of remote work and come into the office only when absolutely required. As a result, workers may arrive late and leave early, attending only brief meetings before returning home. This practice, known as “coffee badging,” has become a common and accepted norm in many workplaces.
A recent survey by Owl Labs revealed that 58 per cent of hybrid employees admitted to coming into the office for only a few hours before leaving, according to a Business Insider report.
The survey also highlighted a growing preference among professionals for a healthy work-life balance, flexible hours, and mental health support over career advancement. Many stated that they are unwilling to spend more time in the office than needed, and if remote work options were eliminated, 66 per cent would begin searching for a new job with better flexibility. Notably, 39 per cent of these employees indicated they would quit immediately if forced to choose.