Latest news with #remoteWork
Fast Company
13 hours ago
- Business
- Fast Company
The hidden cost of RTO: Why forcing choice is detrimental to your business
Like most CEOs, I've been watching the return-to-office (RTO) trend closely. It's yet another wrinkle for the talent acquisition function, which is difficult to begin with. After all, the quest to hire and retain qualified talent is discussed at every board meeting, every leadership team offsite, and every yearly planning event. Entire books, magazines, podcasts, and conferences focus on this topic. Whether called a talent gap, the war for talent, or skills-based hiring, the essence remains the same: It's a struggle for every organization. So, why have I been struck by the most recent exodus back to offices? Because when you force choices, the results don't always land in your favor. Don't get me wrong—here at Employ, we have a great headquarters facility in Denver. Employees enjoy coming to work and collaborating in person. But there's a line between RTO as a productivity gain and it being the reason you lose qualified talent. According to 2025 research by Lightcast, remote job postings are down over 27%, hybrid postings are down 20%, and in-person postings are up over 17%. At the same time, companies that have publicly committed to a five-day in-office workweek are losing talent to employers supporting remote and hybrid working arrangements. It's a double-edged sword. The cost of an open role has direct financial implications on an organization, as well as less apparent indirect consequences. Estimates place the average cost of replacing an employee to be six to nine months of their salary. Other financial costs range from the expense of recruiting qualified candidates to onboarding and training. If temporary workers are needed to backfill open roles, the financial loss escalates. And the longer roles go unfilled, business objectives are derailed and productivity falters. Unfilled positions wreak havoc on the existing workforce. Critical projects might be delayed, and workforce planning questioned. Employee morale and engagement stand to decline, especially if employees are overworked. When the topic of it being time to hire qualified talent becomes water-cooler conversation, rest assured that unfilled roles are being noticed. YOUR CURRENT (AND FUTURE) EMPLOYEES EXPECT YOUR TRUST Clearly, some jobs cannot be done remotely. A job candidate applying as a labor and delivery nurse knows they will work onsite in a hospital setting. A hospitality worker seeking flexible hours at a quick-serve restaurant understands it's in person. The job location is well defined in the job description, and the candidate chooses to work on site. For other roles, workplace flexibility isn't an optional perk—it's brand equity. Forcing a one-size-fits-all policy not only damages internal trust but dilutes the company's external talent brand, which is particularly damaging in an already tight labor market. In the case of roles that do not require an in-office presence, pressuring a return to an office can have cataclysmic effects. When teams have operated remotely with success, especially when a robust employment brand has been built on a work-from-anywhere culture, confidence in leadership erodes when a change is decreed versus suggested. The move from remote or hybrid working arrangements to return to office is perceived punitively. Researchers at Gartner have observed that high-performing employees react to a return-to-office mandate as a trust issue, resulting in a 16% lower intent to stay. 'High-performing employees are more easily able to pursue opportunities at organizations that offer hybrid or fully remote policies,' said Caitlin Duffy, a director in the Gartner HR Practice. 'Losing high performers to attrition costs organizations in terms of productivity, difficulty in backfilling the role, and the overall loss of high-quality talent available to fill critical positions.' THE REALITY OF THE WORKPLACE Speaking of losing valuable talent, the return-to-office mandate can be a deal-breaker for those balancing childcare, eldercare, or other requirements with their career. In many cases, this falls on women in the workplace; however, it can affect any worker at some stage in their career journey. Upwork's research said that nearly two-thirds (63%) of C-suite leaders whose companies have mandated an office return of some sort say the policy has led a disproportionate number of women to quit. Gartner's research also showed women's intent to stay at 11% lower with strict RTO mandates. It's a fact that retaining an employee is less costly and disruptive than losing them. Having flexible working policies can help counterbalance care responsibilities and ensure that valuable skills remain in the workforce. QUALITY OF LIFE, QUALITY OF HIRE Apart from those roles where being in person is required, hard-and-fast rules about returning to the office make it harder to recruit. From a technology standpoint, talent leaders are continually seeking to source new candidates and drive efficiencies in their hiring systems, such as using AI-powered interview intelligence to speed up time to hire. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, labor force participation is off by two million people from the February 2020 levels, impacting industries in every state. And, if you compel people to choose between their family and their career, the former will win every time. To be an employer of choice, offer choice. If you can't offer remote and hybrid work arrangements, offer flexibility. It will be the difference between engaged employees and those planning to leave.
CNET
14 hours ago
- CNET
I Work 100% Remotely With AT&T Fiber's Cheapest Plan: Here's My Secret to Fast, Uninterrupted Internet
If there's anything I've learned about internet in the past year I've been reviewing internet providers, it's that fast speeds are actually not the most important part of a good internet plan. Most of us won't be able to tell the difference between 400Mbps and 1,000Mbps. What we do pick up on, however, is latency or lag. When it comes to working remotely, low latency is key to getting through the day without interruption. If you've ever struggled to get through a Zoom call or lost your connection while trying to download or upload documents, high latency may be the culprit. I'm all for saving money on monthly bills. That's why I signed up for AT&T Fiber's cheapest internet plan, and despite several attempts from AT&T's customer service to get me to upgrade, I know I'll be sticking with this plan for a while. Internet is already expensive. In fact, a recent CNET survey notes that adults are paying roughly $195 more on average for internet than they did last year. Before you go down the rabbit hole of home internet shopping or throw out your router, there are a few easy and low-cost steps you can take to diagnose the issue and optimize your Wi-Fi system on your own, just like I did. Before I started working remotely in my home office, I took these steps to make sure my Wi-Fi wouldn't drop out while I was uploading documents or joining a call, and I've rarely experienced any outages or lag, even with 300Mbps of speed. Here's everything you need to know to improve your home network (but were too afraid to ask). Locating local internet providers 1. Test your internet connection The first step to diagnosing and boosting your internet is running a simple speed test. Speed tests are an easy (and free) way to diagnose your internet woes and get a sense of where -- and when -- your internet is slowest. Running a speed test in your office at different times of the day can give you a sense of whether network congestion is playing a role in slowing you down or if you need to rethink where you're placing your router. Joe Supan, CNET's router expert, recommends starting with an Ethernet cable test to determine whether your router is at fault or it's an internet connection issue. 'If you plug a device into the router directly with an Ethernet cable and you're getting internet just fine through that, then I would say it's a router issue and you can eliminate the provider,' said Supan. Ethernet is a direct, wired connection, so your speeds should be much faster than with Wi-Fi. If you're still noticing slow speeds with an Ethernet connection, you're probably due for a router upgrade. How much speed does remote work require? Working remotely with minimal interruptions requires at least 100 megabits per second in download speed and preferably 30Mbps in upload speed. You likely don't need much more than that unless you have multiple devices or other internet users working in the same space. An internet connection of 300Mbps down should technically be plenty for 10 to 15 devices online simultaneously. Online meetings will be the most bandwidth-heavy activity for most remote workers, unless your work requires video editing or uploading content. At any given time during the work day, at least three devices are online in my home simultaneously. AT&T's cheapest internet tier starts at $55 monthly for 300Mbps is more than enough speed for me. 2. Pick a better internet plan When we refer to internet plans, we typically refer to download speeds or the rate at which information is downloaded from the internet. But a lot goes into a reliable internet connection beyond fast download speeds. Your internet connection woes may stem from a lackluster internet plan -- not just a slow speed tier. "There's kind of a misconception about speed with home internet shopping," said Supan, referring to the tendency to upgrade to the next fastest speed tier to avoid Wi-Fi troubles. "People expect [the internet plan] to be faster, but it's really just, does it work or not?" Here are other considerations to keep in mind when looking for internet that can keep up with your remote work needs beyond download speeds. Upload speeds are important While download speeds are what ISPs typically advertise and what we usually refer to when discussing a plan's speeds, upload speeds play an important role, too. As a remote worker, you'll likely use upload speeds more than the average internet user. We need a good upload speed for Zoom, uploading videos and presenting, among other things. If your job centers around video editing, posting to social media and taking constant video calls, you'll need reliable upload speeds to do so without lag or interruption. Cable internet typically tops out at 20Mbps to 35Mbps in upload speed, and while that may be plenty if you're the only remote worker (and heavy internet user) in your house, you'll notice less interruption with symmetrical download and upload speeds like what you'd get from fiber internet. Latency Upload speeds certainly play a role in determining the latency of your internet connection but it's worth checking the advertised latency of your internet plan. Low latency isn't just optimal for gaming online without interruption; it's also essential for downloading and uploading files quickly, presenting online or taking video calls smoothly. Most fiber internet providers offer low latency but some cable providers, like Xfinity, have started offering ultra-low-lag internet, too. 3. Optimize your router placement Routers and cables aren't the prettiest tech, and they tend to clutter up space, so I understand the impulse to hide them. Unfortunately, your router requires a high vantage point to work optimally, as well as placement in an area not crowded by heavy furniture, walls, or appliances like your TV. To make the best use of your Wi-Fi system, place your router close to your working space, preferably high up off the floor on a shelf. My router is located just near my desk, on a shelf, where I can take full advantage of those Wi-Fi frequency bands. It's also worth checking that your internet equipment is updated regularly to keep the system running smoothly and flush out any bugs. According to Supan, though some routers update firmware regularly, others don't. You may have to go to your router's app or settings to make sure. If you haven't upgraded your router for a while or you rent from your ISP, it may be time to consider investing in your own router that can support the latest Wi-Fi technology. Upgrading to a new model can vastly improve the latency and throughput to your PC -- just take it from Supan, who invested in a TP-Link router and immediately saw boosted upload speeds and better overall performance. 4. Use an Ethernet connection The next best step to consistently getting the fastest internet speeds possible during the work day is to use an Ethernet connection. Ethernet is demonstrably more reliable and faster than Wi-Fi and connecting directly to your router ensures minimal interference and low latency. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to set up. As long as your device has an Ethernet port or you have a USB to Ethernet adapter, all you'll have to do is plug the cable into your modem or router and into your PC. If you don't connect to the internet automatically, you can go to network settings on your Mac or PC and turn it on. 5. Learn how to switch Wi-Fi frequency bands Switching between your router's Wi-Fi channels is an easy way to boost throughput and lower latency, if you're able to do so. Most routers come equipped with the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands and the latest Wi-Fi technology supports an additional 6GHz band. In general, the 2.4GHz band is the most used (and subject to network congestion) as it has a long range, albeit slower speed potential. The 5GHz range is shorter but it offers a faster speed potential. If you're in the same room as your router, you'll get the most benefit from switching to the 5GHz band. The 6GHz band is only available with Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 technology, and you'll need a compatible device to use the band, but it boasts the highest speed potential of the Wi-Fi bands (as well as the shortest range). To switch bands, you can go to your router's configuration page by typing your router's IP address into a web browser and going to your router's wireless settings page. Note that if you rent a router from your ISP, like I do, you may not be able to switch channels. 6. Use a Wi-Fi extender or a mesh network If you can't update your Wi-Fi setup or move your router to your workspace, you should consider investing in Wi-Fi extenders or a mesh Wi-Fi system. Both are helpful for boosting speeds in rooms that your router can't reach, although they have slightly different performance capabilities. If you're trying to extend coverage in just one room, like your office, a W-Fi extender is a great option. If you're trying to improve coverage in the whole house, a mesh router network is a much better option. Debbie Fitzgerald, a technologist and director at CableLabs, advises investing in a good router before spending on Wi-Fi extenders. 'Don't go overboard with Wi-Fi extenders in your house,' Fitzgerald told CNET. 'There have been a number of studies that show you really only need perhaps one, if any at all, and if you add more … it can actually increase latency.' Other considerations for remote work Beyond improving your internet connection, there are a few other steps you can take to make sure your network is secure and your workspace is productive. Use a VPN Anytime you use a VPN, you'll slow the speeds coming to your device. However, VPNs are essential to home network security, especially if you like to travel between co-working spaces or coffee shops where you're using public networks. Utilize IT or tech support If you're working remotely for a company with an IT department, go ahead and save their email and contact information. IT is an invaluable resource for boosting network security and troubleshooting connectivity problems. If you don't have access to an IT department, your ISP or router manufacturing company will have a customer support option that you can use free. Invest in an ergonomic work setup Technically, this tip isn't about your internet connection. But if you're working from home (and you spend 8 hours a day at your computer like I do), I can't stress enough the importance of a productive, ergonomic work setup. You don't have to invest hundreds of dollars in fancy equipment. If you're clever, a few tech essentials can make your life easier and correct your posture. An ergonomic office chair makes such a difference in lumbar support and comfort. I bought this one from Amazon for a decent price, and I've already noticed the difference. If you're using an Ethernet connection, multiple monitors, and you're near your router, there's likely a mass of cords beneath your desk. Using cable covers or ties is an easy way to keep your office neat and hide cord clutter. Plus, they're pretty cheap. Bottom line You can take multiple low-cost and stress-free steps to boost your Wi-Fi and internet connection without upgrading to a faster speed tier. If you're working primarily at home, you'll need a dependable internet connection to get through the day but you don't need to break the bank or even use a multi-gigabit plan to do so. After all, a good internet connection is one you don't even notice.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Amazon Forces Remote Staff To Relocate
Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) is forcing thousands of corporate staff to relocate closer to their teamsoften across the countrywith tight deadlines or risk losing their jobs. Bloomberg reports that teams are being told in one-on-ones and town halls to move to hubs like Seattle, Arlington, VA, or Washington, DC. Employees have 30 days to decide and 60 days to either start the move or resign, without severance. Warning! GuruFocus has detected 2 Warning Sign with AMZN. Amazon says this hub strategy has been rolling out for over a year to boost collaboration, but many roles hired as fully remote during the pandemic are now on the chopping block. This comes after CEO Andy Jassy ended remote-first policies and amid broader cost cuts and warnings that AI will shrink headcount. After years of remote-work flexibility, this hard pivot tests Amazon's ability to retain top talent and maintain morale. Tight relocation windows and no-severance clauses could spur resignations, complicating hiring in a competitive tech labor market already jittery about layoffs. Watch for turnover spikes in affected teams and whether Amazon adjusts deadlines or support packages. How smoothly this transition goes will shape the company's post-pandemic workplace modeland signal how far tech giants will go to centralize their workforce. This article first appeared on GuruFocus.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Amazon Forces Remote Staff To Relocate
Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) is forcing thousands of corporate staff to relocate closer to their teamsoften across the countrywith tight deadlines or risk losing their jobs. Bloomberg reports that teams are being told in one-on-ones and town halls to move to hubs like Seattle, Arlington, VA, or Washington, DC. Employees have 30 days to decide and 60 days to either start the move or resign, without severance. Warning! GuruFocus has detected 2 Warning Sign with AMZN. Amazon says this hub strategy has been rolling out for over a year to boost collaboration, but many roles hired as fully remote during the pandemic are now on the chopping block. This comes after CEO Andy Jassy ended remote-first policies and amid broader cost cuts and warnings that AI will shrink headcount. After years of remote-work flexibility, this hard pivot tests Amazon's ability to retain top talent and maintain morale. Tight relocation windows and no-severance clauses could spur resignations, complicating hiring in a competitive tech labor market already jittery about layoffs. Watch for turnover spikes in affected teams and whether Amazon adjusts deadlines or support packages. How smoothly this transition goes will shape the company's post-pandemic workplace modeland signal how far tech giants will go to centralize their workforce. This article first appeared on GuruFocus.
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
JPMorgan's anti-WFH crusader Jamie Dimon lets top Europe chief work 3,000 miles from his team
A top JPMorgan Chase executive has been allowed to work remotely from his team - while CEO Jamie Dimon continues to crack the whip on employees with his return-to-office mandate. Filippo Gori, the banking behemoth's CEO of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), will be moving to New York City while continuing to run the European business, reported the Financial Times. He is ditching the company's London office - the epicenter of his workload - less than a year after relocating from Hong Kong to take the top job. This means that Gori is free to run the EMEA division five hours behind, and 3,400 miles away from, the bank's managers, staff, and clients whom he is in charge of. While Gori is expected to spend at least half of his time in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, he'll be living and working from the Big Apple - despite Dimon's incessant belief that managers and bankers ought to work together, in-person and in-office. By contrast, for example, Pablo Garnica, the bank's top executive of EMEA Private Bank, is based in Madrid, Spain - who stressed in an interview last year: 'We believe that being close to the clients and being part of that community is really important.' It's understood that Gori, who is also Co-Head of Global Banking, will be working from the bank's headquarters on Madison Avenue five days a week during his move. CEO Jamie Dimon (pictured) has felt the ire of his staff following his incessant belief that work from home is not effective for running a business Gori's move to the States comes amid CEO Dimon's heated criticisms of remote work, which have made him a champion of the return-to-office culture shift. The Wall Street veteran's ironclad anti-remote work stance has caused a seismic backlash ever since he first announced his plan in the years following the pandemic. '[Return-to-office] for the serfs, work from home for the aristocracy. Yep, sounds about right,' one person previously said. 'Rules for thee but not for me. I despise these double standards,' said another. 'Trash policy from a trash company run by a trash CEO,' added a third. 'Billionaires virtue signaling about "work" while they make 5000x more per hour than average wage is always hilarious,' said a fourth. Earlier this year, the JPMorgan Chase CEO announced that the company would require employees to return to the office five days a week starting in March. Dimon also said one reason he wanted people back in the office was that 'younger people are being left behind.' 'To have the younger people coming in but not their bosses - I have a problem with that too,' he said. He also noted that the benefits of in-person office conversations will help younger people to succeed in their careers. 'All day long we're talking,' he said. 'Constant updates, constant share of information.' Remote work means young people miss out on these conversations, essentially 'leaving them behind,' Dimon said. 'I won't do that.' Dimon further added that remote employees tend to not pay attention on company Zoom calls. His strong-armed stance on remote work went viral after one of the company's employees asked a question during a company town hall back in February. The question, posed by Nicolas Welch, a tech analyst at the bank since 2017, triggered an extraordinary rant from the chairman. 'Don't waste time on it. I don't care how many people sign that f*****g petition,' Dimon said. 'It simply doesn't work. It doesn't work for creativity, it slows down decision-making. And don't give me this s**t that work-from-home-Friday works. I call a lot of people on Fridays, and there's not a goddamn person you can get a hold of.' But his rampant anti-work-from-home mandate has infuriated many bankers. According to insiders, the discontent swirls across departments and seniority levels, with employees sharing concerns about surveillance, privacy, and the feasibility of a five-day office mandate, particularly in offices that don't even have enough desks or parking spaces to accommodate everyone. In March, Dimon obliterated a young crowd asking why they can't work from home while speaking at Stanford University's Graduate School of Business. He got onto the controversial topic after a graduate student asked a question regarding his leaked, expletive-loaded remarks from a company town hall about the finance firm's end of hybrid work. Dimon claimed the only group of people disgruntled with the move are 'the people in the middle' - like corporate office workers. 'If you work in a restaurant, you've got to be in. You all may not know this, but 60 percent of Americans worked the whole time,' he said. 'Where did you get your Amazon packages from? Your beef, your meat, your vodka? Where did you get the diapers from?' Dimon appeared to be referring to people who continued to work in person during the pandemic. 'You got UPS and FedEx and manufacturers and agriculture and hospitals and cities and schools and nurses and sanitation and firemen and military. They all worked,' he continued.
