Let’s talk about the state of WFH & flexible work arrangements using a particular example.

Employees at BlackRock are preparing their commuting strategies.

BlackRock will require its employees to work from the office four days a week starting in mid-September.

In a memo to employees from the company’s chief operating officer, Rob Goldstein, and human resources chief, Caroline Heller, the company said, “We have felt the energy generated by being together, in our larger offices, our newer spaces.”

“This energy, and the horizontal collaboration it powers, are what make BlackRock so special.”

The memo increases from three the number of days BlackRock expects its employees to be in the office.

Employees will still be permitted to work remotely for two weeks a year during a “relevant” time period, such as summer, according to the memo.

This news follows a trend in the financial sector I’ve been watching. BlackRock’s move follows JPMorgan Chase, who told managing directors in April that they are expected in the office five days a week.

While I am having frequent, robust discussions with CEOs and CFOs about the state of flexible work arrangements, I have to say the pendulum is swinging back towards “in office”. Time will tell if remote-friendly companies will benefit from being an employer of choice for many candidates.

#financeHR #cparecruiter #cpajobs #wfh #flexibleworking #inoffice #careercoach #careerplanning