Amazon Updates Return-to-Office Policy, Allowing Managers to Terminate Non-Compliant Employees
Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) has recently made changes to its return-to-office policy, giving managers the authority to terminate employees who fail to meet the company’s thrice-a-week office attendance requirement.
According to internal guidelines shared this week, managers are instructed to address non-compliance privately with the affected employees. If the issue persists, managers are advised to document the conversation via email and, if necessary, take disciplinary actions, including termination, as reported by Insider.
The guidelines state, “If the employee does not demonstrate immediate and sustained attendance after the first conversation, managers should then conduct a follow-up discussion… This conversation will 1) reinforce that return to office 3+ days a week is a requirement of their job, and 2) explain that continued non-compliance without a legitimate reason may lead to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of your employment.”
This updated policy represents Amazon’s strictest measure yet regarding its return-to-office policy. Earlier this year, more than 30,000 employees protested against the policy, resulting in many walking out. Amazon’s CEO, Andy Jassy, had previously cautioned employees against resisting the current mandate.
In response to Insider’s inquiry, Amazon spokesperson Rob Munoz highlighted the company’s positive experience with increased in-office presence and mentioned that exceptions would be considered on a “case-by-case basis.”
It remains to be seen how these new guidelines will be implemented and how employees will respond. As the return-to-office debate continues, Amazon is taking a firm stance on its attendance requirements.
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