ResumeBuilder.com, a leading platform for professional resume templates and career advice, has released a new survey report detailing companies’ return-to-office (RTO) plans for 2026. Based on responses from 978 U.S. business leaders surveyed in October 2025, the findings indicate a significant shift toward in-office work, with hybrid models becoming less flexible and remote work options diminishing.
3 in 10 companies plan to eliminate remote work entirely by 2026.
Nearly half of surveyed firms will require 4+ in-office days weekly.
1 in 8 companies aim to increase in-office days in 2026.
64% cite stronger company culture as a key reason for RTO policies.
Only 28% of companies offer incentives like meals or commuter support.
Hybrid work remains common but leans toward structured office days.
The survey, conducted via Pollfish in October 2025, highlights a growing trend among U.S. companies to reduce remote work. By 2026, 30% of surveyed business leaders plan to eliminate remote work entirely, while 48% will mandate at least four in-office days per week. Additionally, 12.5% of companies intend to increase in-office requirements next year, signaling a departure from the flexible work arrangements popularized during the pandemic.
Business leaders cited several reasons for tightening RTO policies. According to the report, 64% aim to strengthen company culture, 62% seek to boost productivity, and 45% want to optimize office space utilization. "Many leaders claim to support hybrid work but are calling employees back more often because of underlying pressures and old habits," says Chief Career Advisor Stacie Haller. "They equate visibility with productivity and fear losing culture and collaboration. Executives still say 'hybrid,' but often mean structured office days rather than true flexibility."
Despite the push for in-person work, only 28% of companies offer incentives to encourage office attendance. Among those, 55% provide social events, 51% offer catered meals, and 51% provide commuter support. The lack of widespread incentives suggests that many employers expect compliance with RTO mandates without additional employee benefits.
ResumeBuilder.com’s findings underscore a pivotal moment for workplace policies, as companies balance productivity, culture, and real estate considerations against employee expectations for flexibility. The shift toward structured in-office days may reshape hiring and retention strategies, particularly for talent prioritizing remote work. For the full report, visit https://www.resumebuilder.com/3-in-10-companies...
ResumeBuilder.com provides templates to help job seekers create professional resumes. The website also offers up-to-date resources and machine-learning tools. With a team of certified resume writers, recruiting experts, and hiring managers, users gain a competitive advantage and confidence to get hired faster. To learn more, visit: https://www.resumebuilder.com/.
TechIntelPro empowers B2B technology decision-makers with the latest industry trends, deep insights, leadership perspectives and actionable intelligence to drive both organizational and professional milestones—and thrive on the tech pulse.