Despite the work-life balance millions of employees have benefited from since 2020 due to hybrid working and complete remote working conditions. Employers are still encouraging their employees to return to the office as frequently as possible; even resulting in Google cracking down on employees who don’t come into the office at least three times a week. 

According to CNBC, Google plans to include office attendance in performance reviews and track badge data. In a letter to Google staff, Chief People’s Officer, Fiona Cicconi, said “There’s just no substitute for coming together in person.” She added: “Of course, not everyone believes in ‘magical hallway conversations,’ but there’s no question that working together in the same room makes a positive difference.”

She concluded by asking Google remoted-approved employees to reconsider coming back to the office on a hybrid schedule. “For those who are remote and who live near a Google office, we hope you’ll consider switching to a hybrid work schedule. Our offices are where you’ll be most connected to Google’s community.” 

It remains to be seen how Google’s employees react to the news; is it fair for Google to track employees' attendance to the office in performance reviews? Could we see other companies follow this policy in the future?