The Future of Remote Work: A Differential Analysis on Working from Home During the Pandemic

It is currently unclear how the Canadian return-to-work will look. Prevalent dialogue surrounding remote work during the pandemic varies greatly across individuals. Some find remote work to be beneficial, citing more time with family and more control over schedule as primary benefits. Others, however, believe that remote work has been a burden to work-life balance and productivity, arguing that the concepts of work and home should remain separate. In this talk, Jacob explores which socio-economic and demographic factors determine the impact that working-from-home has had on the work-life balance of Canadian labour market participants. Moreover, this research provides guiding questions for consideration as the world eventually begins to emerge from isolation to a post-pandemic economy.

Jacob Graham holds a Master’s degree in economics from the University of British Columbia. He is a Behavioural Science Fellow at Impact Canada’s Impact and Innovation Unit, housed within the Privy Council Office. His current work involves bringing behavioural science research and insights to environmental policy spaces.