Coffee badging: what it is, why people do it, and how to address it

You’ve probably noticed a big shift in how we work since COVID-19, with many companies embracing hybrid models or asking people to come back to the office. This shift has sparked some interesting new behaviors, and one of the most talked about lately is coffee badging. It’s a fairly common workplace phenomenon these days, and it really highlights the tension between what companies want and what employees prefer. So, let’s explore exactly what coffee badging is, why so many people are doing it, what it means for company culture, and how employers can actually address it effectively.

What is coffee badging? A deep dive into the phenomenon

Definition and core concept

At its heart, coffee badging is when an employee just pops into the office – just long enough to scan their badge, maybe grab a coffee, or simply make sure they’re seen – before heading back home to work remotely for the rest of the day. People do this to meet those physical attendance requirements that some companies now have, all while still holding onto that flexibility and comfort of working from home.

The origin story: Owl Labs and post-pandemic work

You might be curious where the term “coffee badging” even came from. The term really gained traction after Owl Labs popularized it in their “State of Hybrid Work Report” back in June 2023. This ties directly into our post-COVID-19 world, particularly after widespread return-to-office (RTO) policies started rolling out. Essentially, it’s become a way for employees to navigate these new mandates without completely giving up their preferred remote setups.

Coffee badging in the hybrid work landscape

This practice truly highlights the friction within today’s hybrid work arrangements. It’s pretty common too, with about 44% of hybrid workers admitting they do it. What this really tells us is there’s a disconnect between what employers are asking for and what employees actually want when it comes to flexibility and getting work done efficiently.

Why employees are coffee badging: main motivations

For a lot of people, coffee badging comes down to several factors:

• Efficiency and time saving: Imagine skipping those long, soul-crushing commutes, especially during peak traffic. That extra time can go right back into productive work, or you might even use it for personal activities, which can really make a difference in their day.
• Financial incentives: reducing commute costs: Money definitely plays a big role here. Think about all the costs that come with commuting: gas, public transport fares, parking, grabbing lunch out, or even childcare. By spending less time in the office, people can really cut down on these expenses, all while still technically meeting their attendance requirements.
• Enhanced remote productivity and comfort: You might also find that working from home simply leads to better focus and output. A lot of employees feel their home setups are just less distracting and more comfortable than a traditional office. Having a personalized workspace and fewer interruptions can really boost their ability to concentrate and be more productive.
• Addressing burnout and work-life balance: Sometimes, coffee badging acts as a way to maintain a healthier work-life balance and avoid burnout. If the office environment feels stressful or less engaging compared to a home setup designed just for individual needs, popping in briefly helps employees manage that pressure and prioritize their own well-being.
• Silent resistance to RTO mandates: Think of coffee badging as a subtle form of protest against rigid return-to-office (RTO) policies. Employees can technically comply with the rules while still preserving their preferred remote routines and that precious sense of autonomy. It’s a quiet way to push back without directly confronting the mandates.

The unseen costs: negative impacts of coffee badging

Declining workplace productivity and collaboration

When employees spend less time in the office because of coffee badging, it can really hurt collaboration and make it tougher to handle complex projects. This often disrupts workflow and can ultimately impact overall workplace productivity, making it harder for teams to hit their deadlines.

Eroding corporate culture and team cohesion

Minimal in-person interactions because of this practice can also chip away at your corporate culture. That means fewer chances for genuine team bonding and those spontaneous connections that strengthen relationships. Over time, you might see a workforce that feels less connected and, frankly, less loyal.

The growing employee-employer disconnect

Coffee badging often highlights a growing divide between what employees want – think flexibility and the perks of remote work – and what employers are demanding, like office presence. This can lead to a lot of frustration and disengagement among staff, and that’s something no one wants.

How to address coffee badging: strategies for employers

If you’re dealing with coffee badging in your organization, here are some strategies you can consider:

• Foster open communication and listen to employee concerns: One of the best places to start is by simply talking with your employees. Have open conversations to really understand their needs, how they’re working most productively, and any issues they might be facing with their commute or work-life balance. Hearing them out really makes a difference.
• Optimizing the work-from-home to office ratio: You’ll want to find a sweet spot between offering remote flexibility and encouraging in-office engagement. The goal is to make sure your employees feel truly valued and part of the team, rather than feeling forced into a situation they don’t prefer.
• Embracing true flexible work schedules: Consider offering genuinely flexible options. This could mean allowing employees to pick their specific office days or even putting in place flexible hybrid models that give them more control over their schedules. That kind of autonomy goes a long way in boosting morale.
• Leading by example: management presence and engagement: Managers really play a crucial role here. When leaders are present and actively engaged in the office, they set a strong example. Employees are far more likely to follow suit and be more engaged themselves if they see management leading by example.
• Creating an engaging office environment with social events: Think about making the office a place people actually want to be. Plan regular social events, improve amenities, and create a vibrant, interactive space. This fosters relationships, builds a stronger sense of community, and makes coming into the office feel more appealing.
• Financial support: compensating for in-office expenses: Finally, consider alleviating some of the financial burden. Subsidies or increased compensation to help cover commuting costs, parking, or even childcare can remove a major motivator for coffee badging. Showing that you understand their expenses can build a lot of goodwill.

Moving forward: building a trust-based hybrid workplace

Ultimately, tackling coffee badging really comes down to fostering a workplace built on trust and mutual understanding. When employers and employees see eye to eye, everyone benefits from a more productive, engaged environment.

Coffee badging at a glance

Conclusion

As you can see, coffee badging is so much more than just a quick office visit; it’s a clear sign of the deeper tensions at play in today’s workplace. It highlights the friction between what employers require for office presence and what employees truly desire: genuine flexibility. We’ve covered its definition, why people do it, its impacts, and how employers can really address it. I encourage you to reflect on your current return-to-office (RTO) policies, open up those lines of communication, and explore truly flexible solutions. By doing so, you can build a more productive, engaged, and trusting hybrid work environment for everyone involved.