Why Are RTO Mandates Backfiring — and What's the Alternative?

Return-to-office mandates are backfiring because they feel like punishment, not an upgrade. Orders to “come in” without a clear benefit just read as a lack of trust. ​ When leaders frame RTO as surveillance, they erode autonomy, morale and loyalty. Especially after many employees experienced higher productivity and better balance at home. ​ The alternative is to make the office worth the trip. Design in‑person days around things that don’t translate well to Zoom: Deep collaboration, demos, mentoring, rapid brainstorms. Intentionally cultivate community so people actually want to be there, instead of feeling forced. Read more at entrepreneur.com.