Contract work rising as RTO policies and layoffs reshape careers

"Contract work is surging as companies tighten return-to-office policies and trim payrolls, reshaping how many Americans approach their careers. With layoffs hitting white-collar sectors and remote flexibility shrinking, more professionals are considering freelance and contract roles for stability (and autonomy) in a shifting labor market. Various studies have found that remote workers are often more productive than their in-office counterparts, with some reporting 40 percent higher productivity due to fewer distractions, less meetings and more time for deep or focused work."

"Being your own boss According to a new report by HR platform Mellow, contract work is on the rise as a result of RTO mandates. These so-called RTO escapees cite time-heavy commutes (61 percent), lower on-site productivity (58 percent) and family commitments (45 percent) as their main reasons for going solo. "The commute was becoming unsustainable. I was spending two hours a day and nearly $400 a month just to sit in an office doing work I could finish at home."

Contract work is increasing as companies enforce return-to-office policies and reduce payrolls. Layoffs in white-collar sectors and shrinking remote flexibility are prompting many professionals to consider freelance and contract roles for stability and autonomy. Studies report that remote workers can be up to 40 percent more productive due to fewer distractions, fewer meetings, and more focused work time, while leaders contend that in-person work improves decision-making, innovation, and team cohesion. RTO mandates are causing workers to reassess the 9-to-5 model. A report from HR platform Mellow finds commute time, lower on-site productivity, and family commitments as top reasons for going solo, and many freelancers report higher earnings compared with prior full-time roles.

Read at The Hill