Return-to-office: What leaders are getting wrong, with Harvard Business School professor Frances Frei

The Psychological Push for Return to Office

The current trend towards mandatory return-to-office policies can largely be attributed to the preferences of a narrow demographic within corporate leadership, particularly those with a traditional mindset. Many CEOs express a desire to have employees physically present in the office, driven by nostalgic feelings and personal preferences rather than data-supported performance outcomes. Research indicates that employees highly value flexibility, which often translates to increased productivity in hybrid working arrangements. This disconnect between executive sentiment and employee needs raises concerns about the potential impact on company performance as top talent begins to leave for organizations that prioritize performance over emotional preferences.