Considering Abolishing Hybrid Working? Think Again.
As conversations around the future of work continue to evolve, some businesses are beginning to question the long-term viability of hybrid working models. For finance teams in particular — where structure, consistency, and collaboration are key — the temptation to bring everyone back into the office full-time can be strong.
However, before taking a firm stance, it’s worth revisiting what the evidence actually tells us.
At Howett Thorpe, we work closely with finance professionals and hiring managers across the South East. We’ve seen first-hand how hybrid working has reshaped the workplace for the better — improving employee wellbeing, deepening talent pools, and yes, enhancing productivity when implemented thoughtfully.
The Data Doesn’t Lie
Research continues to show that forcing employees back into the office five days a week can have the opposite effect to what many employers are hoping for. A report by CIPD revealed that organisations with flexible or hybrid working policies saw significantly higher levels of productivity and engagement compared to those that took a rigid, office-only approach.
What’s more, the pressure to “turn up face to face” rather than produce results — has been linked to burnout, lower morale, and a rise in absenteeism at work. The message is clear: people are more likely to thrive when they’re trusted to manage their own time and environments.
Absenteeism on the Rise
One of the biggest concerns for employers considering a return to full-time office working is the risk of increased absenteeism. And it’s not just about sick days. When flexibility is stripped away, employees may start to disengage— taking more time off, arriving late, or beginning to explore new opportunities elsewhere.
This is especially true in the finance and accountancy space, where top talent is in high demand. Candidates today are looking for roles that respect their time, support their lifestyle, and offer a degree of autonomy. Companies that ignore this shift may find themselves facing higher attrition and a shrinking talent pipeline.
Striking the Right Balance
Hybrid working isn’t about losing control — it’s about building trust. It’s about giving people the space to focus when they need to, and the opportunities to collaborate when it matters most.
For finance teams, this often means blending structured office days with remote working that supports deep focus. With the right tools, policies, and expectations in place, hybrid working allows businesses to retain top talent and stay agile — even in a competitive market.
A People-First Approach to Recruitment
At Howett Thorpe, we understand that the world of work is changing — and recruitment needs to keep pace. That’s why we work with clients to shape hiring strategies that reflect the expectations of today’s candidates, without compromising on business goals.
Before you decide to bring everyone back into the office full-time, we encourage you to consider the wider impact. The most successful businesses in the finance sector aren’t those clinging to old models — they’re the ones embracing change, supporting their people, and staying ahead of the curve.
Get in touch with us if you want advice on how to recruit for new roles