Bringing people back: In the office, hybrid, or WFH?

Mihilea Line • July 2, 2023

There are reports of large companies ‘forcing’ their people back into the office, embroiling them in a media backlash and pushback from employees. The truth is that you can invite your people to return to the office, but if you feel you must force people to come back, it might be time to examine your workplace experience.


In this year’s people2people and Frog Recruitment Employment and Salary Report, it was revealed that 73% of employees and 78% of business leaders mentioned they need a better reason to go into the office than their employer's expectations.


In addition, 85% of employees would be more satisfied to work from the office if they knew they would socialise with their co-workers through collaborative activities and meetings while in the office.


  1. Develop a clear vision of the experience of work you want to create. 
    Without it, you’ll end up with an expensive training program that is enjoyable but doesn’t create the culture required. Everything else flows from there.
  2. Do the work required to make the change happen.
    You can hand over culture to HR, but it will only be sustainable if you as a leader do the necessary work.
  3. Select the right support to help you achieve your aims.
    A cultural specialist understands how groups work together, and why change happens or doesn’t.
  4. Ask your people what they need.
    Far too few managers ask their people what would make them want to be in the office, concerned about not being able to deliver. Your employees will appreciate you care enough to ask. 


Want to ensure your business stays ahead of the Australian, New Zealand, and United Kingdom job market? The 2023 Employment and Salary Trends Report is ready to hit your desks now. For the sixth year running, this year’s comprehensive market report delves into the future of recruitment as well as exploring job seekers’ expectations and company culture alongside labour market trends.
Request your copy today.


Grow your career and team
Get in touch with Frog Recruitment

Auckland
   I  Wellington


In business since 2002 in New Zealand, Frog Recruitment is an award-winning recruitment agency with people at our heart. Located across Auckland and Wellington, we specialise in accounting and finance, business support, education, executive, government, HR, legal, marketing and digital, property, sales, supply chain, and technology sectors. As the proud recipients of the 2024 RCSA Excellence in Candidate Care Award, we are dedicated to helping businesses achieve success through a people-first approach.

Recent articles

By Shannon Barlow November 30, 2025
A clear and practical overview of why burnout is rising across New Zealand, what workers are experiencing, and the steps leaders can take to strengthen wellbeing, connection, and resilience within their teams.
By Frog Recruitment November 23, 2025
A detailed look at New Zealand’s shifting labour market, exploring regional differences, industry trends, and why the South Island is driving job growth. Includes insights on talent availability, hiring timing, and the latest data shaping employer decisions for 2025.
By Shannon Barlow November 16, 2025
New Zealand CEOs are signalling renewed confidence in hiring for 2025. While growth is gradual, leaders are planning for strategic expansion, investing in skills, and balancing optimism with realism in a changing job market.
By Shannon Barlow November 9, 2025
Explore HR’s top priorities for 2026—from AI integration and flexible work to generational readiness and commercial alignment. Learn how HR leaders can balance strategy, technology, and humanity to build stronger, future-ready workplaces.
By Leanne Lazarus November 2, 2025
Discover how leadership development is evolving in 2025. Learn what organisations can do to build interdependent, future ready leaders who drive performance, collaboration, and culture.

Latest PR features