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Amazon’s decision to return to office may be about to blow up in its face, following reports that a significant number of staff are planning to leave as a result.
The firm announced a permanent end to remote working starting in January. The tech giant’s decision has sparked widespread dissatisfaction among its workforce, with competing firms like Atlassian waiting in the wings to lure disgruntled employees.
A recent survey conducted by Blind, a “professional social network”, revealed that 73% of Amazon’s corporate staff are contemplating a job switch due to the new return to office mandate, with 91% expressing dissatisfaction. The poll, which included 2,585 verified Amazon workers, also found that 80% knew of colleagues who were actively seeking new roles, and a third had already witnessed resignations.
One Amazon employee shared on the platform that their motivation for the job had evaporated, adding they intended to "check out" until they were placed on a performance improvement plan (PIP). Another worker, hired under remote work terms, described the policy as "crazy" and unfeasible, given their distance from any Amazon office and their family commitments. Some employees voiced their dismay over how the decision impacted their personal lives, with one citing the policy as a factor in choosing not to have children.
Flexible tech rivals waiting to swoop
Atlassian, a staunch advocate of flexible working, was quick to criticize Amazon's return-to-office mandate. Annie Dean, Atlassian’s Head of Team Anywhere, denounced the decision, arguing that Amazon was "clinging to outdated solutions."
The Australian tech firm, led by CEO Mike Cannon-Brookes, has offered its employees the freedom to work from anywhere since 2020, positioning itself as a leader in flexible work arrangements.
Dominic Price, Atlassian’s work futurist, took a more diplomatic stance, acknowledging that some companies might find return-to-office mandates suitable for their business models. He emphasized, however, that if such policies negatively impact employees’ lives, Atlassian is open to hiring those seeking more flexibility, with 300-plus global roles currently available. Price noted the importance of being able to balance work and family life, a privilege he personally values.
Amazon CEO Andy Jassy, in a memo to staff, reiterated the company’s belief that working together in the office fosters collaboration, learning, and a stronger corporate culture.
