Microsoft Tightens On-Site Work Requirements for Headquarters Staff

Microsoft is considering implementing a more stringent on-site work policy, requiring employees at its Redmond headquarters to spend at least three days per week in the office. The change, expected to take effect in January, marks a shift from the current flexible working conditions introduced in late 2020.

Microsoft is reportedly considering a more stringent on-site work policy for its employees at the Redmond headquarters. The software giant is contemplating a new policy that would require employees to spend at least three days per week in the office, marking a shift from its current flexible working conditions introduced in late 2020. This change is expected to take effect in January, according to sources familiar with the plans [1].

The new policy, if implemented, would align Microsoft more closely with other major tech companies that have been tightening their return-to-office (RTO) policies. For instance, Amazon has mandated a rigid RTO policy requiring employees to work in-person five days a week. Meanwhile, companies like Meta and Google generally require employees to work from offices three days a week [1].

Microsoft's current flexible work policy allows most employees to work remotely for up to 50% of the time without approval. However, the new policy is part of a broader trend in the tech industry that includes increased pressure on employee performance. Microsoft's cloud and AI boss Scott Guthrie stated in an internal meeting last September that the company would not consider changing its flexible work policy unless there was a noticeable drop in productivity [1]. Despite this, Microsoft has fired thousands of employees deemed low performers this year and introduced a new performance improvement plan to exit low performers more quickly [1].

The shift towards stricter on-site work policies comes as Microsoft's top finance executive, Amy Hood, has emphasized the need for "intensity" in the upcoming year, following a memo from CEO Satya Nadella asking for "dedication, drive, and hard work" from employees [1]. This move may be driven by a desire to enhance productivity and reduce costs, as Microsoft sells software that enables remote work and has pitched hybrid work as a means to retain employees and increase productivity [1].

The exact details of the new policy are still being finalized, and no official announcements have been made yet. Microsoft spokesperson Frank Shaw confirmed that the company is considering updating its flexible work guidelines but noted that no decisions have been finalized [1].

References:
[1] https://www.businessinsider.com/microsoft-considering-stricter-rto-policy-2025-8