The internal memo from IBM states that managers are told to return to the workplace at least three times a week or leave the firm.
On January 16th, John Granger, IBM’s Senior Vice President, informed managerial workers that they were given the ultimatum: either come back to the office or resign. With a few exceptions for personnel with medical concerns or military service commitments, the new policy states that CEOs and managers are expected to return to the workplace at least three days per week.
Workers who reside more than fifty miles from the closest IBM location have until the end of August to find a closer residence.
After CEO Arvind Krishna stated last year that he would not compel employees to return to the office, the decision represents a shift in IBM policy. Mr. Krishna, on the other hand, has been an outspoken critic of remote labor at IBM, adding that remote workers seldom get promotions.
According to Krishna, remote workers could have a harder time climbing the corporate ladder, particularly regarding managing positions. His point was that dealing with challenging clientele is just one example of remote workers lacking the in-person experience necessary to advance in their careers.
Reports show IBM’s new attitude toward remote work aligns with other tech companies’ efforts to reestablish leadership in traditional office settings. Nevertheless, some firms have backed down from their initiatives following substantial employee resistance.
Managers and employees at Amazon’s headquarters vocally opposed the company’s plans to reopen its physical location, arguing that they would be better suited working remotely and expressing privacy concerns if they were required to report to an office. Many American workers would rather have some flexibility in their schedules and work from home occasionally than stay in the office all day.
But businesses still want to make use of their pricey property. After laying off 12,000 managers, UPS stated that all managers would be required to work full-time in the office.
As part of its initiative to cut $1 billion in costs, the company is letting go of 14% of its managers. UPS said those jobs would not come back. UPS is also considering depending on technology like robots and machines, which would mean fewer jobs for warehouse workers.
