Research suggests that RTO mandates could lead to increased employee turnover, particularly among highly skilled workers, as seen in a study tracking tech and finance workers' employment histories. The study found that average employee turnover increased by 14 percent after RTO mandates at larger firms. Advocates argue that these policies, along with mass layoffs during periods of high revenue, have unified workers and increased their political consciousness, leading to broader campaigns for employment security and better working conditions. As tech companies continue to implement unpopular policies, the momentum of tech worker movements is expected to continue into 2025.
Key takeaways:
- Tech workers' movements gained significant momentum in 2024, with major companies like Amazon, Apple, Google, and Microsoft facing increased organizing efforts.
- Return-to-office mandates and AI-driven workplace policies are fueling dissatisfaction among tech workers, leading to higher employee turnover and increased unionization.
- Studies suggest that RTO mandates are costly to firms, potentially leading to a "brain drain" as skilled workers leave for more flexible opportunities.
- Advocates believe that unpopular policies and layoffs during profitable periods are driving tech workers to join movements and assert control over work-life balance.