Work from office 5 days a week: Dell to employees
What's the story
Dell, the multinational technology giant, has announced a major overhaul of its work policy.
Starting March 3, all employees living within an hour of a Dell office will have to report to the office five days a week.
The move effectively puts an end to the company's hybrid and remote work options for a majority of its workforce.
CEO's perspective
CEO emphasizes value of human interaction
In an email to employees, Dell's CEO Michael Dell said, "All hybrid and remote team members who live near a Dell office will work in the office five days a week. We are retiring the hybrid policy effective that day."
He stressed how human interaction is critical to business operations, adding that "nothing is faster than the speed of human interaction."
Information
Previous return-to-office requirements
Prior to this company-wide mandate, Dell had already ordered its sales, manufacturing, and lab engineers to return to the office. The email emphasized the "new speed, energy, and passion" from these teams as a reason for extending it to all departments worldwide.
Remote work
Changed stance on remote work solutions
Despite the new mandate, Dell still continues to offer remote work solutions.
The firm recognizes the benefits of remote work, such as flexibility, shorter commute times, and cost savings for employees. It also enables employers to access a wider talent pool, lower overhead costs, and increase productivity.
For those employees who don't live near a Dell office, the company has said they can continue to work remotely.
Industry trend
Dell joins other companies in return-to-office mandates
Dell's move comes in line with similar steps by other big names like AT&T, Amazon, Stellantis, and JP Morgan. These companies have also imposed or announced return-to-work policies this month.
US President Donald Trump has also issued an executive order mandating all federal employees to return to the office and end remote work arrangements.