How Ukraine Will Affect U.S. Return-to-Office Policies

We do not know when or how the war in Ukraine will end.  In the meantime, gas prices are up.

U.S. employers and institutions have started moving back to in-person operations.  However, in many parts of the U.S., there is no option for commuting but the car.  

While employers may be tempted to haul everyone back to the office now that COVID-19 numbers are dropping, they should not forget the impact of increased gas prices on those for whom the added cost would make a significant impact on disposable income, and assess who truly needs and wants to be back in the office. 

Some studies are indicating that employees who enjoy the remote working that was imposed because of COVID are no longer prepared to give it up and may quit rather than be required to return to the office.  Some companies have even had to entice office workers with higher wages.  Gas prices could be the straw that breaks the camel's back for some employees. 

In any case, employers should weigh carefully the pros and cons of a "return to normal" attendance policy given world events at this time.