At the beginning of 2024, some experts predicted that about 90% of businesses with office space will have transitioned back to on-site work by year’s end. Now that we are in the back-third of 2024, the answer isn’t so clear.

Many businesses have walked back their stringent return to office (RTO) policies in favor of hybrid options. Others are still trying to figure out if and when they will call their employees back to the office. 

Like many business leaders, you probably have questions about where everything will land when the dust settles and, more importantly, how you should approach RTO. Here’s what you need to know.

Where Are Companies Today? 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about one-third (35%) of American employees performed “some or all” of their work from home. That figure marks a one percent increase from 2022 and an 11% increase compared to 2019. 

Roughly three times as many people are working hybrid or remote roles compared to pre-pandemic levels.

A few major corporations, including Meta, issued sweeping return-to-office orders back in 2023. Most employees have to come into the office at least three days a week. 

However, many smaller businesses haven’t been so quick to eliminate remote and hybrid work arrangements. This should come as no surprise, as offering flexible work options allows smaller companies to differentiate themselves from larger competitors. 

Offering flexibility can make your business a more attractive landing spot for top talent who prioritize work-life balance. 

Why There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Solution

There aren’t any easy answers when it comes to returning to office policies. The right approach depends on a variety of factors, including the nature of the work your team engages in and employee preferences.

Some organizations find in-person collaboration to be essential for fostering innovation and teamwork. Other businesses are more results-focused and are achieving strategic goals with remote work. If you are contemplating RTO versus remaining remote or hybrid, consider the following:

• How critical is face-to-face interaction in maintaining company culture?
• Does spontaneous collaboration play a vital role in long-term growth?
• Has productivity increased or decreased with remote work?
• Can most roles be performed remotely, or do many positions require an in-office model?

Answer these questions and focus on what’s best for your business, not whether RTO policies are trending within your industry. 

The Benefits of Flexibility in RTO Decisions 

One of the biggest advantages of a flexible RTO policy is its potential to enhance employee satisfaction and retention. Offer your team members options to choose the work environment that best suits their needs and can make your business more attractive to talented employees.

Moreover, flexibility in RTO policies can lead to a more diverse workforce. You won’t be limited to your local talent pool. You can attract candidates from a wider range of backgrounds and locations. 

What to Think About When Crafting Your RTO Policy

If you decide to implement a return-to-office policy, it’s important to engage with employees and gather feedback on their preferences and experiences. You want to identify common concerns and desires, which can inform a more effective RTO policy. 

Whatever decision you make, clear communication is key. Ensure your RTO policy transparently relays what changes are happening and your reasoning behind it. 

If you opt to maintain or expand a remote or hybrid model, ensure your technology and infrastructure can support it. Employees need secure access to company systems, reliable communication tools, and sufficient IT support.

Prioritize the well-being of your employees by offering resources that support work-life balance. Offer flexible scheduling and wellness programs. Encourage your team members to take regular breaks. 

Should You Bring Your Team Back to the Office? 

If you are unsure about whether to bring your team back into the office, AssetHR can help. Our human resources consulting professionals will take a deep dive into the needs of your business and its employees. 

We will use a collaborative approach to create an RTO policy that promotes worker satisfaction while also ensuring the company can achieve its strategic goals.

Connect with our team today to schedule a consultation.

Posts that the posts are not intended to provide legal advice and that readers should consult with their attorneys on any matter covered in the article.