The conversation around return-to-office (RTO) mandates is shifting as companies balance in-person collaboration with employee satisfaction. While RTO is seen by some as key to restoring culture and productivity, employees often view it as a disruption to the flexibility they’ve come to expect. To attract and retain talent in this new landscape, companies must offer a compelling reason for employees to return, beyond just a mandate.
The RTO Challenge & Employee Sentiment
Many employees are reluctant to give up remote work, with some willing to leave if forced to return without a clear benefit. Successful RTO policies must create a workplace that employees want to return to—not one they feel obligated to attend. Without this, organizations risk losing top talent to competitors offering hybrid or fully remote options.
Kastle Systems data shows a steady increase in office attendance, with weekly occupancy reaching 54.2% of pre-pandemic levels. Cities like Houston (65%) and Austin (61%) are leading the way, while cities like Philadelphia (44%) remain below the national average.
Creating Purpose in the Office
Rather than viewing RTO as a compliance issue, companies should aim to make the office a destination that supports both productivity and well-being. By offering valuable services and experiences, companies can encourage employees to return willingly.
Consider these in-office perks:
- On-Site Wellness: Amenities like dental cleanings, B12 shots, and flu vaccines reduce the need for after-hours appointments.
- Fitness Opportunities: Yoga, fitness classes, or meditation sessions promote health without extra time commitments.
- Social & Skill-Building: Events like cocktail-making or networking breakfasts help foster connections.
- Time-Saving Conveniences: Dry cleaning, meal delivery, and car maintenance make office visits more efficient.
Partnering with an Experience Management Company
To successfully implement these initiatives, companies can partner with an Experience Management company like Simpli. These experts ensure seamless execution, from wellness programs to engaging social events, enhancing the overall office experience.
This approach not only benefits individual companies but also supports property owners. By offering value-added services, Simpli helps office buildings attract and retain tenants, improving long-term occupancy rates.
Business Impact: Attraction & Retention
Companies that create an engaging office experience gain a competitive edge in talent attraction and retention. Employees who see value in their office time are more likely to stay long-term, and prospective employees are drawn to companies that offer flexibility and meaningful on-site perks.
Final Thoughts
RTO should be about creating an enriching, valuable office experience, not just enforcing a mandate. By focusing on purpose-driven experiences and partnering with experts like Simpli, organizations and property owners can turn RTO into an opportunity for growth, engagement, and long-term success. The question is no longer simply "Should employees return?" but rather, "Why would they want to?" Companies that answer this well will thrive in the evolving workplace landscape.