A deviation from the norm of enforced return-to-office (RTO) policies in the tech realm, Globant, a software juggernaut boasting nearly 30,000 employees, stands out by embracing complete remote work.
In a departure from the prevalent trend, Globant CEO Martin Migoya disclosed to Bloomberg that the company is focusing on enhancing office spaces to allure employees voluntarily rather than mandating office returns.
Globant’s offices have remained open; instead, it has fostered a flexible return pattern. Migoya explained that the company has revamped its office layouts, introducing more inviting features like lounges and secluded areas for remote engagements.
According to Migoya, the objective is to transform offices into attraction hubs, fostering meaningful interactions beyond mere workstations.
With a presence in nearly 70 locations globally, including seven in the US, Globant’s stance on remote work starkly contrasts with companies like Apple, Meta, and Google, which have implemented rigid RTO mandates.
Last year, Amazon bolstered its stringent RTO policy, authorizing managers to terminate employees failing to meet in-office requirements and instituting internal monitoring systems to oversee attendance.
Similarly, Dell cautioned employees that opting for complete remote work would impede their prospects for promotion.
Proponents of RTO mandates argue that they enhance productivity and teamwork, ultimately bolstering company performance. However, a study by the Katz Graduate School of Business on S&P 500 firms suggests otherwise, indicating that strict RTO policies do not necessarily correlate with increased profitability or productivity.
Critics underscore the disruptive impact of such mandates on employees’ lives, particularly for those who have made significant personal and professional commitments, such as relocating or prioritizing flexibility.
Dan Schawbel, an expert in the future of work, emphasized that these mandates can pose challenges for individuals who have invested time and effort in decisions like homeownership or family commitments.