I'm 57 With a Great Remote Job, but My Company Wants Me in the Office Full-Time

"In early 2020, many companies implemented remote work policies in response to the pandemic. And a good number of employees have been enjoying a fully remote schedule ever since. But companies are increasingly asking workers to return to the office. And many are mandating it. reports that 77% of companies today across the U.S., Canada and Latin America expect employees to report to the office three days a week or more."

"If you're 57 and have been working remotely for the past five years, you may feel that you don't have the energy to start commuting daily. But if your employer wants you back in the office full-time, you may also feel like you don't have a choice. It's hard to start over at a new employer at age 57, since you may be approaching the tail end of your career with plans to coast until retirement. Plus, it may not be so easy to get hired at 57."

"Almost two-thirds of workers ages 50 and over have seen or experienced age discrimination in the workplace, according to . It is especially a problem for older women. And while it's illegal to pass over a qualified job candidate on the basis of age, it's also a hard thing to prove. Also, there's no saying that if you were to apply for a new job, you'd be able to find one that's fully remote. So all told, you're looking at a tough situation. But that doesn't mean there aren't solutions."

"It pays to have an open mind After five years of remote work, the idea of a daily commute may be jarring. But Suzanne Hawes, a seasoned human resources consultant, says it's important to have an open mind. If you like your job and the commute is the one sticking point, there may be ways to make it work. The most important thing, she says, is to give commuting a chance. "Often, it takes a few weeks to get used to the old routine again," say"

Remote work expanded widely beginning in early 2020 and many employees have continued working fully remotely. Employers are increasingly mandating returns to the office; 77% of companies in the U.S., Canada and Latin America expect employees onsite three days a week or more. A 57-year-old who has worked remotely for five years may lack the energy for a daily commute and may feel compelled to stay despite reluctance. Age discrimination affects many older workers and can make finding new employment difficult. Finding another fully remote role is uncertain. Remaining open to compromise, negotiating hybrid schedules, and trying the commute for a few weeks can reveal workable solutions.

Read at Kiplinger