Additional Coverage:
- Bosses are done caring how you feel (newsbreak.com)
The empathetic boss of the pandemic era seems to be disappearing. Return-to-office mandates, cost-cutting measures, and a decline in diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts suggest a shift in management priorities.
The pandemic, remote work, and social justice movements had initially prompted many bosses to prioritize employee well-being. Now, some experts believe this focus has waned.
Major corporations are calling employees back to the office, citing reasons like company culture and operational efficiency. Simultaneously, companies are also cutting jobs, increasing performance scrutiny, and scaling back diversity initiatives.
Some employers are even resorting to “stealth firing” tactics. This shift isn’t limited to the private sector; the federal government has also ordered an end to DEI programs and increased in-office work requirements.
One federal contractor expressed concern about losing the autonomy and flexibility of remote work, even considering a lower-paying job with better work-life balance. The White House, however, maintains that these changes are intended to improve government efficiency.
While some executives argue that these measures are necessary for maintaining job security and performance standards, others acknowledge the negative impact on company culture. A recent survey revealed that many CEOs believe their workplace culture is toxic, and some are resistant to prioritizing empathy.
The rise of artificial intelligence and its potential impact on business models is also contributing to anxiety among executives and employees. This fear of obsolescence may be driving some leaders to push for a return to the office, despite increased productivity among remote workers. Some experts argue that this focus on in-office presence is more about control than actual productivity.
However, some argue that in-person work fosters valuable unscripted interactions and collaboration. Despite these arguments, some companies remain committed to remote work.
One company’s chief people officer believes that employee treatment will be remembered and that a competitive job market may force companies to reconsider strict return-to-office policies. She views these mandates as a “power play” by management.
Read More About This Story:
- Bosses are done caring how you feel (newsbreak.com)