Telework in Transition: Sectoral and Demographic Differences in Employee Perceptions During the Pandemic

Abstract This study examines how telework impacted employees across public, nonprofit, and for-profit sectors during the pandemic, focusing on demographic and sectoral differences. It evaluates the perceived effects of pandemic-induced telework on both individual productivity and workforce diversity at the organizational level. Survey findings reveal women in the public sector report productivity gains from telework, but those in nonprofit and for-profit sectors do not. While public sector employees generally view telework positively for productivity, they are less optimistic about its potential to enhance diversity. This research highlights sectoral and demographic characteristics as key moderators of telework impact on employees and organizations.