An Overview of Current Hybrid Work Models

Many companies, particularly those with partnership privileges, have adopted hybrid work policies.
Typically, these policies require employees to be in the office a maximum of three days per week,
often guided by individual team managers’ discretion. Notable companies like Alphabet and Salesforce
utilize hybrid approaches with varying regulations.

Organizations such as Visa, OpenAI, Sephora, Levi Strauss, and DocuSign enforce policies requiring
employees to work at least three days per week in the office or less.

Specific Company Policies

A Visa representative explained:

“We expect employees to be in the office three days a week, specifically Tuesday through Thursday at Mission Rock, at a minimum.”

OpenAI adopts a similar hybrid model, stating:

“We use a hybrid work model of three days in the office per week and offer relocation assistance to new employees.”

Levi Strauss has set its office attendance requirement to at least three days per week, specifically on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

The Push for Increased Office Presence

A mere three days in the office may not suffice for urban revitalization. In pursuit of restoring the vibrancy of city life, major employers are encouraged to require their workforce to commit more than their public sector counterparts.
Governor Gavin Newsom previously mandated state workers to return for four days a week, highlighting the commitment that many essential service workers must meet.

Interestingly, staff at The Standard are required to be present in their office four days a week, demonstrating a model of higher attendance expectations.

Leadership Perspectives

Mayor Lurie, who mandates a five-day office presence for his staff from the onset of his term, recognizes the necessity of in-person work. In February, he advocated for all city employees to be present four days a week, though labor unions have postponed implementation until August.

Encouraging Private Sector Compliance

Despite his efforts, Lurie appears hesitant to compel the private sector to adopt similar expectations. He stated in January:

“My job is not to demand that the private sector be back in the office every day. My job is to make you want to be downtown again.”

This approach demonstrates a focus on creating appealing conditions for downtown engagement rather than enforcing strict attendance rules on private companies.

Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Commitment

Mayor Lurie’s initiatives—such as hospitality zones, sidewalk maintenance, and support for addiction recovery—indicate a commitment to improving downtown conditions. However, encouraging greater attendance from private sector employers remains pivotal for ushering in a more vibrant urban environment.