In a recent survey conducted by HR software provider BambooHR, it was found that some US companies implemented return-to-office (RTO) policies with the intention of getting workers to quit. The survey, which included 1,504 full-time US employees, including 504 HR managers or higher, reveals interesting insights about the impact of RTO policies on productivity and employee preferences.

According to the survey, 52 percent of the respondents expressed a preference for working remotely, while 39 percent preferred working in an office. Despite this preference for remote work, many companies required their employees to return to the office after COVID-19 restrictions were lifted. The report suggests that in some cases, companies enforced these policies in the hopes of reducing their workforce by encouraging voluntary turnover.

The survey also revealed that 37 percent of managers, directors, and executives believed that layoffs were enacted because fewer employees quit during the RTO period. Furthermore, 25 percent of VP and C-suite executives, as well as 18 percent of HR professionals, admitted that they hoped for voluntary turnover during this time. This highlights a concerning disconnect between stated goals for RTO and measuring success in achieving those goals.

While RTO mandates are often promoted to increase productivity and foster collaboration, the BambooHR report contradicts this notion. The survey found that both remote and in-office employees spent an equal amount of time working, with employees working for approximately 76 percent of a 9-to-5 shift, regardless of their work location. Interestingly, in-office employees spent more time socializing, while remote workers utilized that time for work-related tasks and responsibilities.

The report also highlighted that 28 percent of remote workers fear being laid off before those working in the office. This fear may stem from companies discouraging remote work, as observed in the case of Dell, which informed remote workers that they would not be eligible for promotion. The report emphasizes that companies using RTO mandates as a workforce reduction tactic risk losing talent and damaging employee morale.

Despite these findings, the survey did identify some perceived benefits of working in the office. Approximately 48 percent of respondents reported improved work results since returning to the office, while 58 percent mentioned having a stronger professional network. It is worth noting that individual preferences for working from home or in an office can vary based on factors like age.

The survey highlights the importance of incorporating worker feedback and needs when developing RTO strategies. Anita Grantham, head of HR at BambooHR, emphasized the significance of listening to employees and striving to improve their work experience, as this ultimately leads to employee loyalty and customer satisfaction.

Overall, the survey shed light on the motivations behind RTO policies and the impact they have on employee satisfaction and productivity. As the debate continues around the future of work, the findings provide valuable insights for companies navigating the post-pandemic work environment.