Even after vaccinations, we can’t pretend it’s 2019 all over again and force a full return to the office. Companies rushing to return to the old normal and bring everybody to the company’s headquarter will set themselves on a path to disaster. Not immediately, but soon.

Why? Because retaining and attracting new talent will get so much harder for them. All we need to do is think of ourselves having a choice between 2 jobs – similar roles, similar pay and benefits, but one allowing remote work and the other requiring a significant commute. Easy choice, right?

2021 is an inflection point. Whoever gets this right, goes on for a virtuous circle – more flexibility gives a boost to the employer brand, which helps attract better talent for the same cost, which in turn has higher value add to the business results and culture. Rigidity and shortsightedness is the other route.

The companies offering the greatest flexibility will win. Period. So don’t let your competitor lead the way, not this time. This time is too darn important.