The poll highlights a notable shift in working preferences, with just 16% of respondents saying they prefer to work remotely, compared to 22% who favour being entirely office-based, whilst an overwhelming 40% prioritise hybrid working structures.
The trend reflects a continued appetite for healthy living and balance, as hybrid working, now typically three days in the office, is now the preferred choice for all generations. This aligns with not only businesses’ return to work mandate, but candidates’ top priorities when job hunting, citing better work-life balance (40%) and location (19%) among their top five priorities.
Critically, more than half of workers (58%) believe an in-office presence supports career progression, enabling them to learn from colleagues and improving prospects for promotion.
Generational divide
- Gen Z (18–28): Overall, the most positive about office life, two-thirds (66%) state being in the office aids career growth, whilst supporting mental health, development and learning from peers.
- Millennials (29–44): More balanced, with 29% preferring hybrid compared to 26% opting for a full office presence.
- Gen X (45–60): Workers of this generation lead the way on hybrid preferences (44%), with 55% saying being in the office facilitates progression. Just 14% want to be fully remote.
Lee Biggins, Founder and CEO at CV-Library said:
“It feels like the novelty of fully home working is wearing off for workers, and while there isn't yet a wholehearted desire for 5 days in the office, the vast majority do want to have face to face time with colleagues. Loneliness, weakened working relationships, limited mentorship, and reduced collaboration are key issues for remote workers while in-office presence supports career progression with exposure to learn and develop – key to maintaining a happy, healthy, positive mindset. Critically, many say being around others benefits their professional development so it's no surprise to see the younger generation keenest for in-person work collaboration.”
This research is part of a wider report titled ‘Candidate Behaviour Barometer 2025’.
Methodology
Survey of 1,141 jobseekers in the UK conducted in August 2025.
About CV-Library
CV-Library is the UK’s largest independent job site, matching candidates with jobs from the UK’s largest employers. It attracts over 4.3 million unique job seekers every month with a database of more than 20 million CVs.
