Dell’s Return to Office⁤ Sparks “In-Office Politics” Among Employees

Updated June 10, 2025

Dell’s push for employees to return ⁢to the office full-time, which began March 3, has led to unexpected tensions.The company, headquartered in⁣ Round Rock, Texas, expected employees near offices to work “a regular working day in the office,” offering “versatility as needed.” However, the enforcement of this return to office policy varies, creating what some employees ⁢describe as “in-office politics.”

ten Dell employees across the U.S. told business Insider that the degree to which the mandate is enforced ‍depends on thier role and manager. Some report working eight-hour days in the office, while others admit to simply “badging” in and leaving soon after. This disparity has fueled gossip and resentment, according to a Dell program manager.

The program manager, who chose to remain anonymous, said some employees are questioned for working from home, while others face no repercussions.This inconsistency creates a “busy-body type environment” where employees monitor each other’s attendance,the manager added,noting the situation feels “haphazard” and dependent on individual leaders.

A Dell spokesperson stated that the company’s⁤ expectations have not changed. Employees are expected to⁤ work a regular day in the office but have flexibility when needed. The spokesperson added that those in global⁣ roles might adjust their hours ‍to accommodate late evening calls.

Internal FAQs, updated in May, outline limited circumstances where remote work may be permitted with leadership approval, such as temporary medical conditions or the need to provide temporary care. However,⁤ none of the employees who spoke⁢ to Business⁢ Insider cited these reasons‍ for working from home.

One employee ⁣at Dell’s Round Rock headquarters admitted to not adhering to the eight-hour requirement,stating,”I am aware I may be breaking the rules,but no one has corrected me yet.” Similarly, an employee in Oklahoma City said they work about four hours in the office before finishing the day from home.

A tech support worker in Round Rock said⁢ they intentionally come in less as a matter of principle, feeling the policy treats them “like a child.” when the policy was announced, Dell stated it would foster “more in-person connections to drive market leadership.” Vivek Mohindra, Dell’s senior vice president of corporate strategy, previously highlighted the benefits of in-office collaboration, including learning, training, and⁢ mentorship.

The tech support worker said they only come in for in-person meetings, otherwise just “badging and then leaving.” they also noted seeing colleagues⁣ doing the same,walking a “little lap” before heading back to the parking lot.

What’s next

Dell will likely continue to monitor the implementation of its return-to-office policy and address any inconsistencies in enforcement to mitigate employee dissatisfaction and maintain productivity.