Archive · 22 Sep 2025
Office Return Stalls Despite Rising In-Office Mandates
Many companies are telling their employees to come back to the office more often.
Even though companies like Microsoft and Paramount are ordering employees to return, people aren't really showing up much more.
Some companies are trying to force people back by saying they must come in five days a week, or they'll lose their jobs.
However, many employees and even some managers don't want to be there.
Logistical issues like a lack of desks, parking, and video conferencing equipment make returning to the office difficult.
Companies can also save money by quietly encouraging people to leave through office return policies.
Companies are increasing in-office mandates.
Average office attendance has not significantly increased.
Some companies are offering 'voluntary exit assistance packages' for non-compliance.
Many employees and some managers prefer hybrid work.
Logistical challenges and employee attrition are present.
- Who
- Companies and employees across the U.S.
- What
- Companies are increasing in-office mandates, but employee attendance hasn't significantly increased.
- When
- Increasing in-office mandates began in early 2024 and are continuing.
- Where
- U.S. workplaces.
- Why
- Companies are aiming to increase in-person work, while employees and some managers are resistant.
Companies' Perspective
Employees' Perspective
Return-to-Office Policies
Companies' Perspective
Companies are implementing stricter return-to-office policies.
Employees' Perspective
Employees are pushing back against strict mandates.
Office Attendance Compliance
Companies' Perspective
Companies see value in in-person work.
Employees' Perspective
Employees want more flexibility and remote work options.
- Companies Mandating More Office Time
- Microsoft, Paramount, NBCUniversal, The New York Times, Amazon, Dell, JPMorgan
- Increase in In-Office Requirements
- 12% more time in-office than in early 2024
- Companies Requiring 3+ Days in Office
- See compliance fall below 75%
- Companies Offering Exit Packages
- NBCUniversal, Paramount
- Overall Remote Work Usage
- Americans still work from home about a quarter of the time