Global remote workers feel more engaged, but less fulfilled: Gallup survey

WASHINGTON, D.C., UNITED STATES — Remote workers are the most engaged employees globally, but they’re also less likely to feel they’re thriving in life, according to Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace report.

The study found that 31% of fully remote workers reported being engaged at work, eight percentage points higher than hybrid and on-site remote-capable workers (both at 23%). Among workers who must be fully on-site with no remote option, engagement drops to just 19%.

However, when it comes to overall well-being, remote workers lag behind. Only 36% of fully remote employees said they are “thriving,” compared to 42% of hybrid and on-site remote-capable workers. Among fully on-site, non-remote-capable workers, the number drops to 30%.

Isolation and stress undermine remote benefits

Gallup’s data suggests that the physical separation of remote work can lead to emotional distance. Remote workers were more likely to report feeling anger, sadness, and loneliness. Nearly half, or 45%, also said they experienced stress the previous day, about 7 percentage points higher than fully on-site workers.

The report notes that while remote employees often enjoy more autonomy, that same independence can be mentally taxing. 

“While it can boost engagement by giving employees more control over their time, too much autonomy can create stress,” Gallup warns, especially when managing workloads and collaborating without clear boundaries or in-person interaction.

High turnover risk among remote workers

Despite higher engagement, fully remote workers are more likely to be job hunting. Gallup found that 57% are actively or passively seeking new roles. Even among engaged remote employees, 47% said they’re looking elsewhere. The number drops to 38% among those who are both thriving and engaged.

“Employee engagement and well-being together support sustainable, long-term performance,” the report states, urging employers to find ways to preserve remote flexibility while addressing emotional and social needs.

Gallup surveyed 227,347 workers across the globe between April and December 2023.