How can I get hybrid employees to come into the office? - HR Insights

How can I get hybrid employees to come into the office?

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Question:

We went hybrid as an office, but now nobody comes in. Employees are resisting being on site even when expected to be. What can I do? How can I get hybrid employees to come into the office?

Answer:

You need to reset expectations. Hybrid models drift when the purpose is unclear, inconsistently enforced, or outdated. Recommunicate the "why," clarify the onsite requirements, and ensure managers apply them consistently. At the same time, evaluate whether your current hybrid structure still aligns with how your teams work today.

Long Answer

When a hybrid model turns into "remote by default," it is usually because expectations are unclear, enforcement is inconsistent, or the onsite requirement no longer reflects how work actually gets done.

Start by revisiting the purpose of onsite time. Employees will resist inconvenience when the business rationale is unclear. This includes collaboration, training, client experience, equipment needs, or culture building. Reissue a clear, written hybrid schedule or cadence, and pair it with transparent communication about why onsite work matters. From there, equip managers to uphold expectations fairly and predictably. If nothing happens when people skip onsite days, the message becomes that onsite work is optional.

Use this as an opportunity to reassess your hybrid strategy. Some organizations benefit from anchor days or monthly collaboration days (we do this at Vida HR). Others move to a more flexible, outcome-driven structure. The goal is not to convey that it is presence for the sake of presence. The goal is to define an approach that supports your business, your clients, and your teams.

A 60 to 90 day reset period often helps. Clarify expectations, observe how the model functions when expectations are consistently applied, and then refine the approach if needed. Hybrid work only succeeds when it is designed, communicated, and upheld with purpose.

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How can I get hybrid employees to come into the office?

Please note: This information is not legal advice and may not reflect specific state or local requirements.