The companies justify this, among other things, with a better work-life balance, greater flexibility and that the home office option would make them perceived as an attractive employer. At the same time, IAB researcher Grunau sees little scope for companies to demand more presence. Especially in view of the shortage of skilled workers, companies cannot reduce the proportion of home offices at will. Today, skilled workers have a much stronger negotiating position with companies than before. “If the home office options do not meet their expectations, they may leave a company,” says Grunau. In return, this could be an opportunity for other smaller companies to attract skilled workers.
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Some companies have responded to the large proportion of their employees working from home by reducing office space. According to Ifo expert Krause, this is noticeable in the real estate market and is also reflected in an increase in the number of sublets. For IAB researcher Grunau, it is important not to force anyone to work from home. Given the reduced office space, this cannot always be maintained. “But I would advise against that.”