Spotify's Chief Human Resources Officer, Katarina Berg, affirms that the work-from-home or work-from-anywhere (WFA) policy of the company will continue.
She further emphasized that "You can't hire grown-ups and then treat them like children," referring to the fact that the company believes its employees need flexibility and autonomy.
Instead of compelling employees to return to the office, Spotify focuses its efforts on making the workplace environment more appealing. Therefore, employees who share a passion for music are encouraged to voluntarily come together during 'core weeks', in person to connect and create.
This versatile working model isn't only great for improving the morale of the workforce but also reduces the environmental footprint of the company. Spotify aims to minimize its real estate footprint while offering office spaces for those who have a preference for in-person interaction.
The company has only kept a work-from-office policy for interested employees, keeping in mind mental health issues from loneliness that people suffered during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since implementing the WFA policy, Spotify has seen its attrition rate dramatically decrease. The attrition rate reportedly has decreased by 15%, promoting employee retention in the company.
Economic challenges also continue to be experienced by the company as in 2023, it decided to let go of 1,500 employees as part of the process of becoming sustainable.
As hiring moves forward, Berg said the company will most likely continue with low hiring since macroeconomic conditions have worsened.
Whether it’s an employee benefit program or an environmental footprint decreasing measure, the WFA policy is cutting costs while increasing productivity for Spotify.