In-person Collaboration

Microsoft is mandating employees return to the office at least three days a week, reversing its pandemic-era remote work policy. Starting in February, the policy will first affect employees near the Redmond headquarters before expanding. Microsoft’s CHRO cites the need for in-person collaboration to drive innovation, particularly in AI development, as the reason for the change. The move raises questions about employee satisfaction and may be an effort to optimize real estate and foster community. This decision tests whether Microsoft can balance in-person collaboration with employee flexibility.