Should You Leave Your Role Due to a Return-to-Office (RTO) Mandate?
The post-pandemic era has ushered in widespread Return-to-Office (RTO) mandates, with companies ranging from Fortune 500 giants to local businesses implementing hybrid or fully in-office work models. As a result, many Executive Assistants (EAs) are contemplating whether they should leave their current roles to pursue remote opportunities. If you find yourself grappling with this decision, here are some key considerations to guide you.
The Landscape of Remote and Hybrid Work
While the benefits of remote work are well-documented, this discussion isn't about whether EAs can be effective remotely—they can. Instead, this article aims to provide you with a clear-eyed view of the current job market and its implications for EAs considering a transition.
Over the years, my team has tracked hiring trends across industries, focusing specifically on EA roles. Here’s what the data reveals about the current state of job applications:
In-Office Roles: Fully in-office EA roles receive an average of 52–56 applications per posting.
Hybrid Roles: Roles offering at least two days of work-from-home attract 76–78 applications on average.
Fully Remote Roles: Fully remote EA positions draw over 800 applications, with more than 500 applicants being highly qualified.
Understanding the Competition
The numbers speak volumes:
Increased Competition: Remote roles are significantly more competitive, with applicants from across the country vying for the same position. Instead of competing against a localized talent pool, you’re up against top-tier candidates nationwide.
Diminishing Availability: Remote EA roles, once abundant during the pandemic, are becoming increasingly scarce. Many organizations are reverting to pre-pandemic norms, offering hybrid arrangements on a selective basis.
Evaluating Your Options
Before making a decision, reflect on your unique circumstances:
Proximity to Work: If you live near your workplace, returning to the office may be inconvenient but feasible. It could also position you more favorably in the job market should you decide to explore new opportunities.
Relocation Challenges: For EAs who relocated during the pandemic for lifestyle or cost-of-living reasons, returning to the office may not be practical. However, these relocations often come with the trade-off of reduced local career opportunities and salaries.
Financial Considerations: If you’re earning a large metro-area salary in a lower-cost region, prepare for the possibility that your next role may align with local compensation levels. Planning for this financial adjustment now can ease the transition.
Strategic Steps for Moving Forward
Leverage Your Current Role: If your current remote role meets your needs, prioritize maintaining it. Demonstrating your value through measurable results and performance reviews can help you negotiate flexible arrangements.
Be Realistic About the Market: Remote opportunities are highly competitive and limited. Approach your job search with a strategic mindset, understanding the challenges involved.
Consider Hybrid Roles: Hybrid positions may strike a balance between your preference for remote work and the realities of the job market. Explore opportunities where occasional in-office presence is required but allows for some flexibility.
Plan Ahead: If you’re committed to finding a new role, work with a trusted advisor to develop a tailored job search strategy. Building a strong application and targeting the right opportunities will be crucial.
Final Thoughts
The decision to leave your role due to an RTO mandate is deeply personal and depends on your priorities, location, and financial situation. While the current market presents challenges, it also offers opportunities for those willing to adapt and strategize.
For EAs who feel stuck or uncertain about their next steps, know that you’re not alone. With careful planning and the right support, you can navigate this transition successfully. Reach out to explore your options and develop a plan that aligns with your goals and aspirations.
If you're unsure about what’s appropriate for your situation, consider scheduling a consultation to discuss your specific needs. Contact us HERE.
