A growing number of Amazon employees are pushing back against the company’s latest return-to-office mandate, citing concerns over productivity, work-life balance, and trust in leadership. The backlash comes after CEO Andy Jassy announced that most corporate employees would be required to work a full five-day week from their local Amazon office starting in January.
An anonymous survey created by employees has garnered widespread attention, with over 30,000 members of a “remote advocacy” Slack channel sharing their concerns. The survey’s results, viewed by Fortune, reveal a resounding dissatisfaction with the new policy, with an average rating of 1.4 out of 5.
Many employees argue that the mandate will negatively impact their lives and productivity, citing reduced flexibility and collaboration, as well as the challenges faced by single parents. Some have proposed alternative solutions, such as adjusting work expectations to reflect the elimination of remote work.
The trust factor is also a significant concern, with many employees feeling that the move signals a lack of faith in rank-and-file employees and managers. Some fear that the policy will drive out top talent, while others are left feeling miserable and disengaged.
Despite the outcry, it remains to be seen whether Amazon leadership will reconsider the policy. A similar memo sent to leadership last year was dismissed, and Jassy’s recent announcement suggests that the company is committed to its new approach.
As the debate continues, Amazon employees are making their voices heard, sharing their concerns and proposed solutions in the hopes of sparking change. Whether their efforts will be successful remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the future of work at Amazon is far from certain.
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