Amazon employs approximately 1.6 million people worldwide. Many must do their work face-to-face, in sorting centers or for deliveries. But several hundred thousand were also able to telecommute, which had been the case since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
In an internal communication, Andy Jassy, president and CEO of Amazon, has just announced the end of this favor and therefore the return to the office for the 300,000 employees who were away from it. The words used by the “big boss” were obviously carefully weighed. Thus, if the measure will enter into force on 1is next May, it will be gradual, with time “left to draw up plans”, fit out the offices…
More creativity, collaboration and efficiency
While the system seemed to be working, what prompted Amazon to change its tune? Different conclusions drawn from internal analyzes and external consultations, in particular with other companies that had also implemented teleworking:
– It is easier to learn, model, practice and reinforce the culture when employees, especially new ones, are together in the office most of the time and surrounded by their colleagues, notes Amazon. Commitment and motivation are higher in person.
– Collaboration, creativity, finding solutions is also easier and better as a team.
– Experience sharing is better and more effective when people meet physically.
– The different teams are better connected to each other.
These are only part of the reasons behind Amazon’s approach. Andy Jassy is in any case convinced that this return to face-to-face is essential “in view of our absolute priority, which is to serve customers and the company.”
In Luxembourg, Amazon employs 3,960 people. Contacted by Paperjam a few days ago regarding the flexibility of working time, the e-commerce giant explained that “teams work remotely, others remotely and in the office and others mainly in the office. We do not prescribe a number of days, it is up to the directors to decide with their managers”. A way of doing things that will soon change.
