Microsoft execs tell employees in internal meeting RTO is backed by data that shows in-office workers are 'thriving'

Core Viewpoint - Microsoft is implementing a stricter return-to-office policy based on internal data indicating that employees who work more in-office days are "thriving" [1][3]. Group 1: Return-to-Office Policy - The company observed that social ties, which are essential for innovation, weakened during remote work, leading to the decision for a stricter return-to-office policy [1][2]. - Employees are encouraged to spend at least three days a week in the office to achieve a higher "thriving score," which reflects their energy, empowerment, and sense of meaning in work [3][4]. - Seattle-area Microsoft employees currently average 2.4 days a week in the office, indicating that for some, the new policy may not represent a significant change [4]. Group 2: Flexibility and Team-Specific Policies - While the company is mandating more in-office time, it acknowledges the importance of flexible work arrangements, allowing different teams to set their own terms for in-office work [4][8]. - CEO Satya Nadella emphasized that there is empowerment for teams to organize their work arrangements in a way that suits their needs [8].