Rethinking RTO: It’s About Reinvention, Not Return

June 27, 2023

Ah, the buzz of ‘Return To Office’ (RTO), echoes in every corner of the corporate world. But let’s be real: the original RTO—Recovery Time Objective—is more apt, given that most of us have proven we can be productive from almost anywhere. So, why the rush to get back to the office?

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Three RTO Pillars: What’s the Rush?

When companies talk about RTO, three themes emerge:

  1. Community and Collaboration: The in-person camaraderie is a big sell.
  2. Productivity and Efficiency: Can we really be productive at home? (Spoiler: Yes!)
  3. Company Culture: The feeling that office presence builds culture.

But here’s the catch: RTO isn’t a magical solution for these issues. Solve these first, then figure out your office needs.

Eye-Tracking Software? Think Again!

If you’re considering extreme measures like eye-tracking software to monitor your employees, there’s a deeper issue at hand. It’s time for a reality check.

The Real Deal

A positive office environment is built on clear priorities, well-set expectations, and consistent check-ins. Simple as that.

What Makes People Want to Come In

People are more likely to show up when:

  • There are strong team relationships.
  • Contributions are recognized.
  • Leadership sets an example.
  • There’s flexibility, even when people are in the office.

It’s Not a Return; It’s a Reinvention

Let’s stop calling it a return. It’s about reimagining what office life can be, based on current needs. It’s a one-size-does-not-fit-all approach, and that’s perfectly fine.

Special Offer: Manager AMA

Feeling stuck managing your team? Book one of the FIVE limited spots for a 1:1 Manager ‘Ask Me Anything’ / Integration Call. Whether it’s RTO strategies, managing change, or feedback, you’ll leave with a concrete action plan.

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Bonus Tip

Executive coaching often falls under reimbursable expenses, and for entrepreneurs, it’s a tax write-off. So really, what’s holding you back?

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Meet Lia Garvin

Lia Garvin is the bestselling author of UnstuckTEDx speaker, host of the top podcast Managing Made Simple and team operations consultant with experience leading team operations across Google, Microsoft, Apple, and Bank of America. As the Founder of the The Workplace Reframe business consulting firm, Lia uses the lens of “disruption without destruction” to equip innovative organizations of any size and industry with the tools to cultivate inclusive, motivated, high performing teams resulting in higher retention, more efficiency, and better business results. She is a sought after expert in the media, featured across Inc, FastCompany, ABC News, CNN Business, US News & World Report, HBR, Yahoo, and TV News.

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