What: The pandemic has changed corporate life as we know it, and while many companies are going all-in on a return to the office, others are embracing new hybrid or fully remote working models.

Why it is important: Neiman Marcus, which has allowed employees to work fully remotely for two years, says this flexible working policy has boosted employee retention and happiness. The department store said that its goal is to allow employees to determine their work schedules and office set-ups to maximise effectiveness.

Based on internal polling and assessments, Neiman Marcus found that flexibility was one of the top three drivers of employee happiness and productivity. Since implementing certain remote working policies, Neiman Marcus’ turnover rate is down 20% from 2019. The company, which filled 1,200 roles in 2021, also said its time-to-hire rate has gone down 32% compared to 2019. These boosted employee retention rates are even more salient, given a general work environment characterised by high levels of resignation./nbsp]

While encouraging whatever model works for an employee, Neiman Marcus is also gearing up to move to a new integrated office in Dallas, which will also foster an environment for hybrid work. Corporate employees will be able to work remotely from anywhere and come into the office when they want to collaborate in-person. For store associates, Neiman Marcus offers a remote selling tool called Connect, which helps some workers connect with customers remotely.

Neiman Marcus says remote work boosted retention rates