As more companies enforce return-to-office mandates, HR leaders face a growing challenge—managing employee resistance. While some employees welcome the structure and collaboration that comes with in-person work, others value the flexibility of remote options. Finding a balance is essential to maintaining morale while achieving business goals.
In a recent article by the Forbes Human Resource Council, 19 industry experts, including Crawford Thomas Recruiting President William Stonehouse III, shared their strategies for navigating employee pushback on return-to-office policies. Their insights focus on transparency, flexibility, and fostering a workplace environment where employees want to be.
Engaging Employees Through Collaboration
A common theme across the expert advice is the importance of engaging employees in the transition. Strategies include forming culture councils to gather feedback, emphasizing the benefits of in-person collaboration, and offering phased return options. Clear communication about the business rationale behind the mandate, combined with empathy for individual concerns, helps build trust and encourages buy-in from the workforce.
William Stonehouse’s Approach: Collaborative, Phased Returns
Crawford Thomas Recruiting President William Stonehouse III emphasizes the importance of proactive communication and offering phased return options to mitigate resistance. “HR leaders should approach return-to-work resistance proactively, emphasizing transparent communication about business rationale, employee health, and workplace flexibility. Engaging employees collaboratively, offering hybrid or phased return options, and addressing well-being concerns builds trust, fosters buy-in, and mitigates resistance effectively,” he advises.
At Crawford Thomas Recruiting, the hybrid model reflects this commitment to flexibility. While many employees enjoy the option to work remotely, there is also a strong contingent who prefer to be in the office full-time or a few days a week. To make the office environment appealing, Crawford Thomas provides top-of-the-line equipment, including standing desks and dual monitors, along with unlimited snacks, drinks, and breakfast.
Creating a Workplace Employees Want to Return To
Experts agree that one of the most effective ways to reduce pushback is to create a workplace employees are excited to return to. This means fostering meaningful collaboration, providing modern office amenities, and allowing some degree of flexibility. HR leaders are encouraged to listen to employee concerns, identify gaps in remote work, and clearly communicate how in-office time supports both individual growth and company success.
By embracing these strategies, companies can navigate the complexities of return-to-office mandates while maintaining a positive and productive workforce.
This article features insights from the Forbes Human Resource Council, including expertise from Crawford Thomas Recruiting President William Stonehouse III.