Pushback against Return-to-Office plan

Big tech companies continue to encourage employees to return to physical offices, but many workers resist. A recent report indicates that Dell has encountered significant challenges in this effort.

Earlier this year, Dell introduced a new return-to-office policy requiring employees to designate themselves as either remote or hybrid. Those choosing the hybrid option must work in a physical office 39 days per quarter, roughly three days per week. Conversely, remote workers are ineligible for promotions or new roles within the company.

Employee reactions and concerns

According to Business Insider, nearly 50 percent of Dell's workforce opted to remain remote, undermining the company's attempt to reinstate its in-office culture. The publication interviewed a dozen Dell employees who cited various reasons for their decision. Some appreciated the increased free time and reduced financial strain that remote work offered, while others mentioned their local offices had closed or expressed disinterest in promotions.

Additionally, some employees pointed out that working in person seemed futile when their teams were dispersed across multiple locations, resulting in frequent Zoom calls. One employee noted that colleagues who chose the hybrid model often worked in nearly empty offices, still relying on video calls.

Many interviewed employees admitted they were seeking employment with companies that do not mandate a return to the office.

Remote work policies

Dell's struggle is not unique; Apple has also faced internal resistance to its remote work policies. Executives advocating for in-person work argue that it fosters better collaboration and innovation. However, research on the subject is mixed. A working paper from the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research suggested remote work might lead to a modest 10 percent drop in productivity, though the cost-saving benefits could offset this decrease.