Post-Pandemic Remote Work and Gender Differences in Recognition
New research indicates that the shift to remote work may impact men and women differently, with men returning to in-person work at higher rates than women. The pandemic has transformed workplace habits, moving away from traditional office hours toward more flexible arrangements.
Changes in Work Patterns
Companies and organizations have grown more comfortable with flexible work hours and locations, which helps retain valuable employees. However, this flexibility might affect career progression differently for men and women.
Insights from Employment Experts
“That's our business, is to churn people. So we see everything in the employment market, good and bad,” said Phil Blair, CEO of Manpower San Diego.
Blair emphasized the value of in-office networking, such as informal conversations by the “water cooler,” which remain important for career growth.
“Where's your bump in the hall where you say, 'Let's go have lunch or join us?’ It's that human nature of knowing people and trusting them. So you have to be visible to do that. On the screen — Zoom or Teams, or whatever — it's not the same,” Blair explained.
Return to Office Rates Differ by Gender
According to a June 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics survey, men are more likely than women to return to in-person work, suggesting that remote work flexibility may impact women’s visibility and recognition at work.
Summary
The post-pandemic rise in remote work brings benefits but may pose challenges for women's career recognition due to less in-person visibility compared to men.
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