It's a battle experts say could end a years-long experiment in flexible, remote work — or spark a sweeping worker revolt.
Law firm Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP said in a statement that on Sept. 6 its offices will move to a hybrid working model where most employees will work three to four days a week in the office, subject to operational requirements and local public health guidance. "We're hearing from organizations that the value of creative collision that happens in offices just cannot be recreated virtually," said Tara Van Zuiden, Deloitte Canada’s human capital partner and leader of workforce transformation for Western Canada.For many workers, the preference for working from home is about flexibility and the lack of distractions. They want a better work-life balance and an end to lengthy commutes.
The company does most work remotely and"occasionally we gather in person in highly intentional ways to build trust with our teams and connect to our mission. We call these 'bursts,'" spokeswoman Jackie Warren said in an email. "We're on a bit of a collision course," said Mike Shekhtman, a regional director with recruitment agency Robert Half."Some employers believe the office is the best place to see a high level of productivity. They still believe they have to see and hear their teams in order to feel like they are collaborating and innovating.Companies that issue strict policies around returning to the office this fall could face a wave of workers quitting.