In September 2024, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy announced a significant shift in its work policy, mandating that employees return to the office five days a week starting January 2, 2025. This move marks a departure from the company’s previous hybrid model, which required in-office presence three days per week.
The mandate had mixed reactions some expressed concerns that following this decision however Andy states how return to office mandate will impact employee satisfaction, retention, and overall company culture. Amazon is among several major companies including Disney, Boots and Nationwide that have recently implemented full time return to office polices.
In an era where workplace flexibility has become the norm, organisations face the challenge of making the office an attractive space that employees want to return to—not out of obligation, but because they see real value in doing so.
At Spica, we believe that the key to a successful return-to-office strategy lies in creating an environment that fosters productivity, collaboration, and well-being. Here are five effective ways to encourage employees to embrace office life once again.
1. Create an Inspiring Workplace
A dull, uninspiring office will never compete with the comforts of home. To entice employees back, businesses must invest in modern, welcoming workspaces that prioritise both collaboration and individual productivity.
- Introduce comfortable, ergonomic furniture and varied workspaces to suit different tasks.
- Maximise natural light and biophilic design elements to create a healthier environment.
- Offer on-site perks such as wellness rooms, quiet pods, or social lounges.
A recent survey by CBRE found that significant improvements post-implementation of CBRE’s Workplace 360 initiative in Singapore increased 80% in collaboration, a 72% increase in focus, and a 92% increase in the ability to work in small teams. These outcomes highlight the benefits of diverse and flexible workspace designs.
2. Adopt a Hybrid-First Mindset
Rigid five-day mandates may meet resistance, so businesses must consider hybrid flexibility as a compromise. Many companies, including Amazon, have implemented structured hybrid models to balance in-office collaboration with remote autonomy.
- Allow teams to choose their most productive in-office days.
- Implement core collaboration hours to ensure presence when needed.
- Use workspace booking technology like GemEx to optimise office attendance and avoid overcrowding.
At Spica, we’ve seen businesses benefit from tools like GemEx that implements real-time space utilisation data. With GemEx, companies can understand employee habits, adjust office layouts, and create data-driven policies that truly support hybrid working. Instead of guesswork, businesses get insights that drive smarter, more efficient workplaces.
3. Foster a Stronger Workplace Culture
One of the biggest incentives for returning to the office is the human connection it fosters. Employees don’t just come to work for tasks they come for meaningful interactions, mentorship, and learning opportunities.
- Regular team-building activities like lunch-and-learns, networking events, and wellness programmes can help reconnect teams.
- Leadership visibility matters when senior leaders work in the office, employees feel more engaged.
- Encouraging knowledge-sharing through mentorship or informal meet ups enhances workplace learning.
4. Offer Exclusive In-Office Benefits
To make office attendance more appealing, businesses should introduce perks that employees can’t access remotely. This can be anything from on-site fitness classes to professional development programmes.
- Subsidised meals or coffee bars make commuting more worthwhile.
- On-site childcare or wellness programmes can ease work-life balance concerns.
- In-person training and career coaching give employees a professional edge.
Companies like Google and Microsoft have long used exclusive office perks as a tool to retain talent and strengthen their office culture.
5. Communicate the ‘Why’ and Lead by Example
A successful return-to-office strategy hinges on clear communication. Employees need to understand why in-office work benefits both them and the company.
- Be transparent about the rationale behind office policies.
- Gather employee feedback regularly to address concerns and refine approaches.
- Encourage managers to set the tone by working in the office themselves.
Amazon’s 2025 return-to-office mandate has stirred debate, with 91% of employees expressing dissatisfaction. As organisations grapple with the future of work, Spica champions a balanced approach. Our GemEx workplace experience software enhances productivity and well-being by optimising office space and facilitating seamless collaboration. We believe that smart, flexible solutions are the key to creating a workplace that works for everyone”
Simon Hilton, Head of New Business
Conclusion
The return-to-office debate is far from over, but one thing is clear forcing attendance without value won’t work. Instead, companies must create an environment where employees feel motivated, supported, and engaged. At Spica, we’re committed to helping businesses optimise their office spaces through smart workplace technology that enhances employee experiences. By making the office a magnet, not a mandate, organisations can successfully navigate the evolving world of work. How is your company approaching the return to the office?
