Google reduces remote work, prefers in-person collaboration
US technology company Google has made an official announcement that shows a change in its attitude towards remote working, joining a growing list of big tech companies returning to collaborative working policies.
Google’s Chief Human Resources Officer, Fiona Cicconi, outlined the new directive in an internal memo obtained by the media this week, emphasizing the importance of an office presence in fostering connection within the Google community.
Going forward, telecommuting requests will only be considered in exceptional circumstances, where non-remote employees are expected to spend three days per week in the office, monitored through badge swipes that may affect performance reviews.
The decision by big tech companies, which own the resources and tools to facilitate effective remote work, signals a departure from the widespread adoption of remote work policies seen during the pandemic.
These companies, which were at the forefront of enabling remote work globally, now seem to have changed their faith in its efficacy.
The change is in line with other major tech firms that have recently implemented stricter policies, effectively reversing their previous support for remote work.
Tech companies were once pioneers in offering flexible work arrangements, using enticing office perks to attract top talent.
However, when the pandemic hit the US, those same companies quickly switched to remote work.They became active recruiters of remote workers until last year, when industry leaders like Apple, Amazon, and Meta began scaling back their remote work policies.
