Rise of Remote Work: A Study Reveals Productivity Hacks Among Workers
In recent years, remote work has become increasingly popular as companies transition from traditional office setups. A new study by Lending Tree highlights both the benefits and challenges faced by remote workers, indicating a growing trend for some to use digital tools to feign productivity.
Conducted by QuestionPro, the study surveyed 2,000 Americans aged 18 to 79 from May 1 to 6, 2025. Results show that nearly 40% of remote workers admit to employing software or hacks to appear busy at work, with a higher prevalence among men (44%) compared to women (32%). This finding raises questions about workplace accountability and the hidden struggles of maintaining genuine productivity in a home environment.
Moreover, the study found that over half (51%) of remote workers engage in side jobs while fulfilling their main responsibilities, with a significant disparity between genders—58% of men compared to 42% of women. Among those not currently working side jobs, 58% of respondents expressed interest in exploring the option.
Parents working from home face unique challenges. The study indicates that 74% of remote workers with children under 18 manage childcare tasks simultaneously, and 69% admit to completing household chores during work hours. Many reported longer working hours (52%), while 18% claimed to work less.
Looking forward, the convenience of remote work appears to be a priority for many employees, with 45% opposing a full-time return to the office. Interestingly, this opposition is stronger among men (49%) than women (40%), and 54% of parents indicated a desire to avoid returning to the workplace.
As remote work continues to evolve, the findings underscore the complexities of balancing home and job responsibilities as well as the creative measures some workers take to maintain their work image.
Source: Lending Tree study, conducted by QuestionPro. Reported from Washington, D.C.
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