As companies ramp up in-office mandates, many workers are turning to a stealthy strategy called “coffee badging”—showing up briefly at the office to attend a meeting, chat over coffee, and swipe in before heading home to finish the day remotely. It’s become a middle-ground move for employees trying to preserve flexibility without openly defying return-to-office rules.
The trend, especially popular among millennials and Gen Xers, speaks to a growing disconnect between what employers want and what employees have come to expect post-pandemic. “Flexibility is no longer a perk—it’s a priority,” says career expert Viv Paxinos. For some, coffee badging feels like a way to protect mental well-being and productivity. For others, it could mean missing out on in-person networking and career visibility.
Experts say the key is balance. While short office visits might preserve autonomy, consistent in-person presence can still matter for promotions and building relationships. If you’re tempted to coffee badge, consider talking openly with your manager about what kind of schedule works best—and back it up with proof of strong performance.
For leaders, the challenge is to make office time feel worthwhile. That means offering more than just mandates—think collaboration spaces, purposeful meetings, and a culture that respects flexibility. Whether you're clocking in full-time or just grabbing a desk for an hour, trust and communication are what really keep teams thriving.
Source: Harper’s Bazaar
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