Amazon Implements New Policy Linking Promotions to Return-to-Office Mandate
In a recent update to its promotions policy, Amazon has announced that employees must adhere to the company’s return-to-office mandate in order to be eligible for promotions. The revised policy, as reported by Business Insider, states that workers should be present in the office for at least three working days each week. Those who fail to meet this requirement would need approval from a vice president to be considered for a promotion.
This development comes shortly after Amazon instructed managers to discuss office-based working expectations with non-compliant employees, with the possibility of terminating those who continue to oppose the rule.
An Amazon spokesperson emphasized the importance of compliance with guidelines and policies for employees being considered for promotion. They stated, “Promotions are one of the many ways we support employees’ growth and development, and there are a variety of factors we consider when determining an employee’s readiness for the next level.”
The disparity between Amazon’s expectations and the desires of its workers has been evident in recent months. After laying off approximately 27,000 employees at the end of 2022 and beginning of 2023, Amazon requested that its office-based workers reduce their remote and hybrid working hours. This request came years after many employees were sent home during the peak of the pandemic.
Earlier this year, around 30,000 Amazon workers signed an internal petition opposing the revised requirement, and a small group even staged a walkout to protest this and the company’s environmental practices. However, Amazon reported that only a fraction of those who committed to the walkout actually participated.
In addition to meeting the company’s policies, employees must consistently demonstrate performance at the next level, and the role should have room for growth following promotion.
While Amazon’s stance may seem extreme, it is part of a growing trend among companies cracking down on remote working. Google, Apple, and Roblox are among the other companies that have implemented anti-compliance measures.
Rob Munoz, an Amazon spokesperson, reiterated the company’s support for employee growth and development through promotions. Munoz stated, “Like any company, we expect employees who are being considered for promotion to be in compliance with company guidelines and policies.”
Amazon also highlights that it has a remote work exception process in place.
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