Google (Nasdaq: GOOGL) becomes the newest tech company to walk back on its hybrid work policy.
The tech giant is reportedly implementing stricter measures to ensure employee attendance in its offices. The crackdown comes as the company works to fight leaks as it shifts its focus deeper into artificial intelligence.
The company on Wednesday updated its hybrid work policy to include tracking office badge attendance, sending reminders to employees who consistently fail to come into the office as required, and adding attendance into performance reviews, according to internal memos viewed by CNBC.
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Since April 2022, most employees have been expected to be physically present in the office at least three days a week.
The crackdown may also eventually impact the company’s already-approved remote workers. CNBC notes that an internal document stated that remote workers may undergo reevaluation in case of “material changes in business need, role, team, structure or location.”
Separately, in an email to employees, Google’s chief people officer, Fiona Cicconi, “encouraged” remote workers living nearby to reconsider.
“For those who are remote and who live near a Google office, we hope you’ll consider switching to a hybrid work schedule. Our offices are where you’ll be most connected to Google’s community,” she wrote. She also emphasized the importance of in-person collaboration, stating that “there’s just no substitute for coming together in person.”
Both Apple (Nasdaq: AAPL) and Meta (Nasdaq: META) also previously called on their employees to return to their offices.
Information for this story was found via CNBC, The Verge, and the sources and companies mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to the organizations discussed. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
