Workplace Flexibility: What CEOs Get Wrong—Brian Elliott Explains

In this episode, host Denise Chaffin sits down with Brian Elliott, CEO of Work Forward and a leading expert on the future of work, to uncover the real forces driving return-to-office (RTO) mandates. Brian, a former executive at Google and Slack, breaks down why some companies insist on bringing employees back—and why it’s often not about productivity. He explores how commercial real estate concerns, cost-cutting strategies, and outdated management styles contribute to the push for in-office work.

Denise and Brian also dive into the economic impact of workplace flexibility, revealing how companies like Atlassian, Allstate, and Zillow are outperforming their competitors by allowing teams to determine their own work structures. They discuss how AI and performance-tracking tools are changing how leaders manage productivity, offering a glimpse into the future of workforce management.

Recruiters and hiring managers will find valuable insights on how hybrid work influences talent acquisition and retention. Whether you’re a business leader, HR professional, or employee navigating today’s workforce challenges, this episode provides must-know strategies for staying ahead in a rapidly changing job market.

Key Episode Segments:

• RTO Mandates as a Layoff Strategy – Many CEOs push return-to-office policies to encourage voluntary resignations, reducing workforce size without paying severance.

• The Real Reason Behind RTO Policies – It’s not always about productivity; commercial real estate investments and financial motivations play a major role.

• Hybrid Work Drives Engagement & Retention – Studies show employees with workplace flexibility are more engaged, with lower turnover rates.

• AI’s Role in the Future of Work – AI-driven tools allow companies to measure productivity based on outcomes rather than office attendance.

• Recruiting in a Changing Landscape – Companies demanding full in-office work are losing top talent to more flexible employers.