RTO = Return to Office

What does it mean?

RTO means ‘Return to Office’. In the wake of the global pandemic, many companies are re-evaluating work arrangements. "RTO" refers to the planned return of employees to a physical office environment after a period of remote work. However, a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't necessarily work. Companies are exploring various RTO models to adapt to the evolving needs of both businesses and employees.

Common RTO Models:

  • Full-Time In-Office: This traditional model requires employees to work from the office for the entire workweek.

  • Hybrid Work: This increasingly popular approach offers a blend of in-office and remote work days. The specific schedule (e.g., 3 days in office, 2 days remote) can vary depending on company policy and individual roles.

  • Office first: Some go back to the old ways, with a bit more flexibility to have the occasional day from home.

  • Fully Remote: This of course is not an RTO model, but thought it would be good to mention. Some companies have embraced a fully remote work model, allowing employees to work from any location with an internet connection.

Benefits of RTO:

  • Enhanced Collaboration & Communication: In-person interaction can foster better teamwork, brainstorming, and problem-solving compared to solely virtual communication, although in this case it might also be something where we still evolve and with technological solutions, people being more comfortable with online brainstorming tools like Miro, that might just be how we look it from an old point of view.

  • Company Culture & Team Building: A physical office environment allows for informal interactions and social connections, strengthening company culture and team spirit.

  • Improved Training & Onboarding: In-person training sessions and mentorship opportunities can be more effective in an office setting for new hires. Training of course does not have to be a weekly or even monthly thing. So can be considered an exception to RTO anyhow.

Challenges of RTO:

  • Work-Life Balance: Mandatory in-office schedules might disrupt existing work-life balance arrangements for some employees.

  • Commuting Costs & Time: Returning to a full-time office schedule can translate to increased commuting costs and time for employees.

  • Focus: We’ve all experienced how much focus can improve with a more comfortable working setup, less distractions and to be honest, better coffee and lunch.

  • Neurodiversity: For some employees with neurodiversities such as ADHD or autism, open-plan office environments with constant stimuli can hinder focus and productivity. A full-time RTO might not cater to these individual needs.

  • Employee Satisfaction: A rigid RTO policy might not resonate with employees who thrive in a remote work environment.


Finding the Right Balance:

The ideal RTO model depends on various factors, such as industry, company culture, and employee preferences. Effective communication, flexibility, and employee well-being should be prioritized when determining the most suitable RTO approach. Companies can explore offering designated quiet spaces within the office, best-for-person schedules or flexible work hours to accommodate employees with focus needs.

The post-pandemic work landscape is evolving, and RTO models are constantly being refined. By understanding the different RTO options and their implications, businesses can create a work environment that fosters productivity, employee satisfaction, and a thriving company culture, considering the needs of a neurodiverse workforce.