Table 2 Themes and sub-themes

Impact of the pandemic on work

Pre-COVID experiences of remote working; Changes to working style; Productivity; Privacy and security

Relationships with colleagues

Sense of community; Reduced interaction with colleagues; Being away from negative relationships

Benefits of working from home

Freedom and flexibility; New opportunities; Inclusivity

Challenges of working from home

Time zones; Home ergonomics; Reliance on screens and technology; Work-life balance

Family

Improved relationships; Childcare

Moving posts during the pandemic

Adjusting to new posts; Lack of social events; Language barriers; Leaving old posts

Perceptions and predictions of post-pandemic work

New views on remote working; Benefits of returning to face-to-face working; Challenges of returning to face-to-face working; Hybrid working; Considerations for the future