By the end of 2025, it's predicted that 22% of Americans will be working remotely, marking a permanent shift from traditional in-office expectations. But in the technology sector, where remote work initially thrived, we’re now seeing a growing number of companies revisiting return-to-office policies.
At Rise Technical, we asked our network of tech professionals and employers:Are you seeing a shift from remote work back to onsite or hybrid models?
The responses were revealing:
41%
said more companies are now requiring office presence
20%
said remote work still dominates
39%
reported mixed experiences depending on the company
This reflects what we see in the market every day:a fragmented hiring landscape with no one-size-fits-all approach. While some tech startups are pulling back on remote-first policies, others are doubling down on flexibility to stay competitive.
As Newsweek recently reported, companies offering flexible work are attractinghappier and more engaged candidates, but how can job seekers in the tech industry respond to these shifting demands? Here are 4 tips for how you can navigate remote, hybrid & onsite job markets
1. Be Clear and Honest About Your Location Preferences
If you’re applying for jobs, be upfront about whether you need fully remote work or are open to hybrid or occasional onsite presence. Employers value clarity, and it helps avoid mismatched expectations later.
2. Read the Fine Print on Remote Job Listings
Not all “remote jobs” are created equal. Some require you to live in certain time zones, others expect monthly in-office visits. Clarify details with your recruiter or hiring manager early in the process.
3. Showcase Your Remote-Ready Skills
Even if you’re applying for hybrid roles, companies want to know you can work independently. Make sure your CV and interviews highlight your use of remote collaboration tools (like Slack, Zoom, Jira, Notion) and your ability to self-manage across distributed teams.
4. Stay Informed, The Market is Evolving
The shift between remote, hybrid, and onsite continues to evolve, and with that comes a greater need to stay up-to-date with the latest updates. Monitor tech job boards, follow recruiters in your niche, and stay informed about remote work trends in tech to stay ahead of the curve.
Looking for a Tech Role That Matches Your Work Style?
Whether you prefer remote tech jobs, hybrid developer roles, or onsite IT careers, the most successful candidates are those who align their preferences with market demands, while staying flexible where it matters.
Want support finding your next role in a shifting market? Speak to a Rise Technical consultant today or visit our website to find out more.
